Your shopping list--or don't buy groceries when you're hungry

When exploring major investments at your medical practice, you will improve your chances for getting your money's worth by taking the time to create a request for proposal (RFP). Large, complex organizations go through a meticulous process to create RFPs. Yours doesn't need to be terribly complex, but you should include seven components to ensure clear understanding between you and your vendor. Make sure you get input from stakeholders in your organization most affected by the proposed purchase. Make RFPs part of the routine in your practice when purchasing equipment or services from any major vendor.