[Research on the Optimization of Fixed-Term Scrapping System for Medical Equipment: Taking Defibrillators as an Example].

OBJECTIVE

To address the prevalent issue of resource waste caused by the "fixed-term scrapping" policy in medical device management, this study aims to establish a scientific residual value evaluation system based on real-world data (RWD). The goal is to provide theoretical and empirical evidence for optimizing medical resource allocation and breaking the traditional rigid age-based mandatory retirement model.

METHODS

Defibrillators, a typical category of emergency equipment in a large tertiary Grade A hospital, were selected as the pilot sample. A technical evaluation model incorporating the Process Capability Index ( C p k ) and a health economic evaluation model based on the replacement cost method were constructed. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 191 valid quality control records from 85 in-use devices to quantitatively evaluate the actual performance status and potential economic value of devices serving beyond their recommended lifespan.

RESULTS

Empirical analysis demonstrated no significant linear correlation between the service life of defibrillators and their core performance. Under standardized maintenance, 37.6% of the devices that had served for over 12 years still exhibited excellent process capability ( C p k > 1 . 33 ). Implementing a condition-based service life management strategy for this specific category of equipment alone could theoretically save the hospital approximately ¥ 1 , 152 , 000 in replacement costs.

CONCLUSION

The current fixed-term scrapping system for medical equipment poses a significant risk of resource misallocation. This study validates the effectiveness of a dual-dimensional (technical and economic) evaluation model in identifying the residual value of equipment. It is suggested that medical institutions implement classified management based on device characteristics-establishing a hierarchical life-extension management catalog based on the C p k index-to achieve refined fixed assets management and significant cost efficiency while ensuring medical safety.