Finding the right financing model and avoiding pitfalls in the contract
Financing laboratory diagnostics is a key issue for every medical practice. In addition to acquisition costs, ongoing expenses such as reagents, quality control material, maintenance and consumables must also be considered. Factors such as reimbursement modalities in accordance with BAG regulations and the actual analysis volume also influence the cost structure. Transparent and reliable planning is therefore essential.
Axonlab offers three contract models for your practice:
Purchase +
With a purchase, you acquire the analyser outright and make a one-time investment in your own practice laboratory. This model offers maximum independence and full control over operations and planning – but requires a higher initial investment.
Rental +
Rental enables an easy and financially flexible entry without high initial investments. Clearly defined monthly fees provide a transparent cost structure for device financing. Reagents and accessories are calculated separately.
Partnership contract +
The partnership contract combines devices, reagents, quality control material, consumables (capillary cups, pipette tips, etc.) and service into a comprehensive overall package. This model provides maximum transparency, as all key services are included and the economic management of the practice laboratory is significantly simplified.
This contract model allows you to start operating a practice laboratory without high investments or start-up capital.
Which solution is suitable depends on the individual requirements of your practice.
With our Transfairency approach, we work with you to determine which model is best suited. Sometimes purchasing is the right choice, in other cases renting makes more sense. Our goal is always to find the right solution for your practice.
Why it pays to take a close look at the contract
Regardless of the financing model, the contract ultimately determines how flexible you remain and what costs will arise in the long term. What may seem clear and affordable at first glance can include limitations or additional costs in the details. That is why we recommend: Read contract terms with the same attention you would give to reviewing laboratory results: carefully, thoughtfully and with healthy scepticism.
Typical pitfalls in laboratory contracts
Review existing contracts using our checklist and see directly how Axonlab addresses these points transparently and in a spirit of partnership.
How are the costs covered? +
What to look out for:
Are device costs, reagents, quality control material, consumables, service and support listed transparently? Is it clear what is included in the price and what is charged separately?
Practical example:
A closer look is worthwhile if you are only offered a list price such as a “price per reagent”: in many cases, this does not include the accessories required to operate the device. Duplicate or quality measurements, which are essential in everyday practice, can also generate additional costs that often only become apparent later.
How Axonlab addresses this:
Transparent pricing structures without fine print. Devices, reagents, quality control material, consumables and service are clearly itemised – understandable, predictable and without hidden surcharges.
Are there additional costs? +
For example for installation, training, software updates, support or minimum purchase quantities?
How Axonlab addresses this:
No hidden costs. Installation, training and support are clearly defined.
How long are you committed? +
Are the contract terms realistic and aligned with the development of your practice?
Practical example:
If the size of your practice changes – for example due to retirement – from three physicians to one, the requirements for laboratory devices also change. Your contract should therefore allow flexibility when switching within device portfolios.
How Axonlab addresses this:
Flexible contract terms tailored to your practice development, volume and planning.
What are the notice periods? +
Check how long before the end of the contract notice must be given and whether there are automatic renewals.
How Axonlab addresses this:
Short and fair notice periods without automatic renewals. We focus on partnership rather than obligation.
Are there fees for early termination? +
Check whether fees apply in the event of a practice transfer, closure or relocation due to early termination of the contract.
How Axonlab addresses this:
No additional fees in the event of a practice transfer or closure.
Is there support regarding economic efficiency? +
What additional advice do you receive beyond the contract? Is the economic efficiency of the device analysed together with you?
How Axonlab addresses this:
Our specialists support you with cost-effectiveness analyses and model comparisons and help find the solution that best suits your needs.
Are contractual benefits clearly and transparently defined? +
Be cautious with rebates, vouchers and similar incentives. Are the rebates tied to conditions, can they actually be redeemed, and do they comply with applicable regulations?
Your next step
Take five minutes to review your current contract point by point. Use the criteria above to assess whether terms, durations and services align with your practice.
If you would like a comparison, we would be happy to prepare a non-binding indicative offer or discuss together which of our financing models (purchase, rental or partnership contract) makes sense for your situation.
Transparency is not a buzzword for us. It is part of every offer we make.