The Real Problem No One Talks About
Let’s say you’ve got a family member using an oxygen concentrator, wheelchair or maybe a BP monitor at home. You bought it or rented it during a health emergency, and once things calmed down, it just… sat there. We often assume medical devices are always “ready to go.” But that’s far from true. I’ve spoken with technicians, even doctors, and many agree — unmaintained equipment fails more often than people realize. One loose wire, one dirty filter, and suddenly a life-saving machine becomes a useless box.
Why Maintenance Actually Matters (And Isn’t Just Tech-Speak)
I used to think of maintenance like something only hospitals needed to worry about. But after seeing a relative’s blood pressure monitor show wrong readings due to calibration issues — I got it. Here’s what proper maintenance really does:
- Keeps readings accurate — wrong numbers lead to wrong treatment.
- Avoids surprise breakdowns — especially during emergencies.
- Extends life of equipment — a machine that’s cared for lasts longer.
- Ensures safety — faulty devices can spark, leak, or even shock.
Real-World Example
There was this time during a heatwave when our home oxygen machine suddenly started making a weird noise. We hadn’t cleaned it in weeks. Turned out the filters were clogged and it overheated. A simple cleaning could’ve avoided it. But we didn’t know better.
Some Basic Maintenance You Can Do
You don’t need to be a biomedical engineer. Just simple habits like:
- Wiping down machines regularly.
- Storing them away from direct sunlight.
- Keeping batteries charged.
- Checking if error messages show up.
- Scheduling professional checks every 3–6 months.
If you’re using equipment from a service like Aarogyaa Bharat, ask about their inspection policy. Most good platforms send pre-checked devices — but even then, home upkeep matters.
FAQs
Q: Isn’t this the company’s job if I rent equipment?
Yes and no. They inspect before delivering. But once it’s in your house, daily upkeep is your responsibility.
Q: How do I know it needs maintenance?
If it makes strange sounds, gives weird readings, or shows blinking errors — it’s time.
Q: Can I skip it if I barely use the device?
Even unused machines can gather dust or degrade. Always store them properly and check them before use.
Final Thoughts: Care For What Cares For You
Look — we rush to fix a phone if it stops working. But when it comes to life-saving machines, we often delay, ignore, or just forget. Your equipment doesn't need to be high-end to be vital. Even a basic glucometer or thermometer matters when someone's health is at stake. Keep it clean. Keep it working. It’s a small effort that could save a life.
