The American Optometric Association (AOA) suggests that doctors advise their patients to avoid private firework use and instead enjoy professional displays to protect and preserve eyesight.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission approximately 9600 people were treated in hospital emergency rooms for firework related injuries last year. About 400 Americans permanently lose vision in one or both eyes due to fireworks injuries each year according to the American Society of Ocular Trauma.

Sparkler Meltdown Hazard
Historically, about two-thirds of the fireworks-related injuries are burns to the hands, eyes, head and face. Nearly half of the victims are under 15 years old, and twice as many males are injured as females. With temperatures hot enough to melt gold, sparklers are the culprits that cause the most trips to the hospital for children ages 14 and under. Among all age groups, firecrackers cause the most injuries.

Bystanders are not safe from injury. Data from the United States Eye Injury Registry shows that bystanders are injured by fireworks one-half of the time with about 100 injuries to people attending public displays.

In a challenging economy, many practices are tempted to respond to advertisements that offer used equipment in “mint” condition at a fraction of the cost of new equipment. But these savings are often not savings at all.

Before making a used equipment purchase, ask yourself the following questions:

• Why is the equipment used in the first place?
• How does it compare with the latest technology? Is it an obsolete instrument? Is the software version current?
• Is the physical condition and appearance of the equipment consistent with the image I want to convey to my patient?
• Does this investment make good financial sense? Talk to an accountant about IRS Tax Code Section 179 Tax Credit.
• Does this equipment add productivity to the practice? New, efficient equipment may provide lower cost per patient over the long term.
• What is the guarantee? Are replacement parts still available from the manufacturer? Only new equipment provides a factory warranty honored by a local, authorized distributor.
• What is the track record of the person or company selling the equipment? When I need help, will they show up? It’s naïve to think that someone a thousand miles away, with no local representation, will provide good service after a sale.

Of course, controlling budgets is very important, but no successful practice can afford the cost of inefficiency or equipment downtime. Growth and smooth operation depends on more than hardware - new or used. Our company can offer insight and solutions to common productivity issues. Please call us for a consultation.