If you’re in the midst of shopping for medical waste disposal services, you’re likely starting to feel a bit overwhelmed by the mass of information online. Furthermore, the information you need is often hidden in the depths of the company’s site, or they withhold it in the hope that you’ll contact them to find answers. Sometimes, by the time you talk to someone, you’ve completely forgotten what you wanted to ask. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of the top questions healthcare facilities forget to ask medical waste disposal providers.
1. Where is the company located, and what area does it serve?
It goes without saying that you’ll need to hire a vendor that services your area. While this is obvious, sometimes the vendors who appear highest on Google results are outside your service area. So, always confirm that the vendor is local before moving forward.
2. How much do services cost?
Many medical waste disposal companies keep pricing a secret until you’ve contacted them and answered their questions. Seek out a vendor with transparent pricing who openly publishes their services and fees on their website.
3. What is included in the cost of services? Are there any additional or hidden fees?
Surprises aren’t fun when they arrive in the form of a bill. So, before you hire your next medical waste service vendor, request details concerning what is included in the cost of services. Also, ask about additional fees for variables such as distance or improper waste segregation.
4. Is there a fee for excess waste?
Speaking of fees, it’s imperative that you know what you’ll pay for your average amount of generated waste as well as those days/weeks/months when you generate more. Is there a fee for additional waste? How is it assessed? How much is it? Knowing these details in advance ensures you won’t be surprised when your next invoice arrives.
5. Are add-ons available?
Surely, biohazard and hazardous waste aren’t the only types of waste generated by your facility. So, ask about add-on services, such as paper shredding and collection. Some medical waste disposal companies offer add-ons at a discounted rate for customers already signed on to receive healthcare medical waste services.
6. Is a contract required?
Many medical waste disposal vendors require customers to sign a contract. While common, it’s not the best practice. Ask if your vendor requires a contract, and if they do, review the details carefully. When possible, choose a vendor that prefers to build relationships rather than contractual obligations.
7. Is a service agreement provided?
While you should avoid vendors who require a contract, it is advisable that you find one who provides you with a service agreement. Unlike a contract, which requires you to pay for services over an agreed length, a service agreement is your written guarantee of what you will receive and how much you’ll pay. Rather than outlining what you must do, it outlines the services that will be provided to you.
8. Are they licensed and insured?
Always confirm that your vendors are licensed and insured. This ensures you are protected if they should experience an accident or create damage. Otherwise, you’ll be liable for any damages incurred. Furthermore, valid licensing and insurance indicate that the business is legitimate and can be trusted.
9. How long is the support response time?
Your vendor should always strive to meet your facility’s needs. So, when you need help, expect them to respond. Ask your vendor what their policy is for responding to customers. Will they respond within a set amount of time? Is that timeframe acceptable to you? Ask these questions now, before you have an urgent need.
10. Can the vendor handle the volume of waste generated by your facility?
Your facility’s size and workload will heavily dictate the amount of waste it generates. Consider the average amount of waste your company produces and confirm that the vendor is capable of handling the volume.
One of the most common mistakes healthcare facilities make when choosing a waste disposal provider is failing to thoroughly interview them. These top questions that healthcare facilities forget to ask medical waste disposal providers are simple yet give you a comprehensive look into the capabilities and commitments of your prospective provider. You can find answers to these questions on our website or by contacting us today.
We are MedWaste Management – California’s medical waste disposal experts!
Established in 2008, MedWaste Management fills a need for compliant and safe medical waste disposal in the healthcare industry and the general public alike. We publish this blog to share valuable and practical information to help you stay safe, informed, and healthy!
Call us with any questions or to start service at (866) 254-5105. We are always happy to help!
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Tammy McKinney, RN, is a healthcare writer and seasoned registered nurse. With experience in acute care, long-term care, rehabilitation, drug & alcohol, and hospice & palliative care, she combines her medical understanding with her love for writing to educate and inform the public on various health-related topics. You can view a snippet of her portfolio here or contact her directly on LinkedIn!
