Should I Rent or Buy Medical Equipment?

A walker, wheelchair, and crutches against a white background in El Paso.

If you or a loved one has a medical condition requiring medical equipment, you have options. You can purchase new or used medical equipment or simply rent the equipment on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis. While both options have pros and cons, it’s entirely up to you which one you choose. To aid you in your choice, we will examine the pros and cons of renting versus buying medical equipment. 

If you or a loved one is in need of medical equipment, Wheelchair & Walker in El Paso is here to help. Contact us online or call (915) 544-7144 to learn more about our products and services.

Pros and Cons of Medical Equipment Rentals

If this is your first time researching medical equipment, you may not know that medical equipment rentals are an option. However, in the same way that you can rent cars, furniture, tools, and other equipment, you can also rent medical equipment. 

Pros of Renting 

  • Renting is cheaper in the short term. 
  • If you don’t have a ton of storage space at your home, you can return your medical equipment when you’re finished with it. 
  • Ideal for short-term use or if you’re planning to transition to a new piece of equipment. 

Cons of Renting

  • Long-term rentals are very expensive. 
  • You might need to return the equipment if your lease runs out, even though you should continue using it. 

Instances When Medical Equipment Rentals Makes Sense

In general, the only time it makes sense to rent equipment is if you aren’t going to need it permanently. If, for example, you’re rehabbing from an injury or surgery and only need a specific piece of equipment for several days or weeks, renting is the cheaper and more sensible option. Medical equipment rentals are also ideal for going on trips where you don’t want to take your equipment with you but will need something when you reach your destination. 

Medical equipment rentals also make sense if you’re planning to transition to something else. For example, if you’re going to need a knee walker in the long term but a wheelchair in the short term, you should rent the wheelchair and purchase the knee walker. 

Pros and Cons of Buying Medical Equipment 

While renting is an option, purchasing medical equipment’s still more common. However, that’s partially because most people don’t realize that renting is an option. 

Pros of Buying 

  • Cheaper if you need medical equipment long-term. 
  • You don’t run the risk of having to return your equipment before you’re finished with it. 
  • You can take your medical equipment with you wherever you go. 

Cons of Buying

  • A bigger upfront cost. 
  • Takes up storage in your home. 

Instances When It Makes Sense to Buy 

If you plan to use a specific piece of medical equipment in the long term, it always makes sense to buy it. That way, you can make any necessary changes or modifications to fit your preferences. Purchasing medical equipment is also much cheaper than taking out a long-term lease, and you can rest assured that it will be there when you need it. 

In most cases, the only time it’s better to rent medical equipment than it is to purchase it is for short-term use and recovery. Otherwise, your money will be better spent purchasing the equipment. 

If you’re not sure which option makes the most sense, we can help you make the right decision. 

Where to Get the Best Medical Equipment in El Paso

Whether you decide to rent or buy your medical equipment, Wheelchair & Walker can help. We have some of the best and most modern medical equipment rentals and items for purchase in El Paso and for an affordable price. From top-notch rentals to an expansive list of medical equipment for purchase, we have exactly what you need! Contact us online or call (915) 544-7144 today.