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As we discussed in our previous blog, urodynamics (UDS) lockouts have become a growing concern for today’s healthcare providers. As the urodynamics industry becomes more competitive, these tactics have become more common, making it essential to understand not only what they are but how to effectively navigate and overcome them.
Before committing to a supplier, make sure they truly have your practice’s – and your patients’ – best interests at heart. Ask yourself:
A true partner is more than just a supplier – they will understand your needs, provide honest information, and work with you to achieve the best possible outcomes for your practice and patients.
Though most commonly disguised in your “system upgrades”, lockouts can be hidden in regular updates, maintenance, and repairs. In some cases, UDS systems have been returned from repair with lockouts added—without any prior notice or explanation. It’s important to ask:
By asking these questions, you’ll quickly know whether you’ll incur a lockout with your “system upgrade” – and be able to better plan for your current and future needs.
Your quotes and invoices can indicate signs of a lockout. Look for terms like:
Carefully review your service and warranty contracts; make sure your contract allows flexibility in your choice of catheters and that your warranty won’t be voided if you use alternatives to your supplier’s brand.
When “upgrading” a system that’s designated end-of-life (EOL), don’t look at just the upfront cost – consider the long-term expenses, like cost of consumables (e.g., catheters, pump tubing, electrodes, etc.), maintenance, and potential lockout implications. What seems affordable upfront can quickly become costly due to limited options and higher catheter prices.
If your system uses a handheld RFID scanner to enforce lockouts, you can ask your supplier to remove it. You may face some resistance at first but be persistent – it can be removed if you remain firm with your supplier. If your supplier still refuses to remove it, advise them you will file a complaint with the FTC.
The (FTC) is committed to preventing fraudulent, deceptive, and unfair business practices. If you believe your lockout situation falls under these categories, we urge you to consider filing a complaint.
If in spite of the above actions, your UDS system remains locked, consider replacing it with an open-source system that does not require you to purchases a specific catheter and consumables that must be scanned before starting each study.
If you’re currently locked out, reach out to us directly. We’ve navigated this process before and can guide you through it. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you navigate and overcome the challenges of urodynamics lockouts.
These lockouts can be challenging, but they don’t have to disrupt your practice. By carefully choosing your supplier, asking the right questions, reviewing your contracts, and evaluating long-term costs, you can avoid many lockout-related issues. If you’ve already been locked out, there are steps you can take – from requesting a removal to asking for help – to take back control.