/ IN THIS BLOG
Doctors know their offices and facilities generate biohazardous waste that requires proper disposal. However, not all doctors realize the range of options available when partnering with waste disposal companies. Due to limited industry information, many doctors' offices end up locked into long-term medical waste management contracts. While contracts are common, they are not the only solution—and often not the most cost-effective.
01 / Problems With Long-Term Medical Waste Management Contracts
Stringent Terms and Severe Penalties
Long-term contracts with waste management companies are often highly polished legal documents. These agreements can bind doctors to five-year commitments, requiring monthly payments regardless of usage. The real challenge lies in the termination fees, which often amount to half the remaining contract's value. These penalties make it financially burdensome for doctors to exit a contract, even when seeking alternative waste disposal solutions.
Lack of Control Over Pricing
Contracts often grant companies the right to adjust service prices at any time, and they frequently exercise this right. Even as prices increase, the contractual obligations remain unchanged, leaving doctors obligated to pay higher rates than initially agreed.
Hidden Contract Renewals
Waste management companies frequently send updated agreements mid-contract. Without careful review, doctors can unknowingly renew for another five years under the same restrictive terms. Many discover this only when attempting to terminate their contracts, leading to significant frustration.
02 / Alternatives to Long-Term Contracts
Flexible Service Agreements
A better alternative to long-term contracts is a medical waste service agreement. These agreements provide the same reliable and compliant waste disposal services but without locking doctors into multi-year commitments or exposing them to steep termination fees.
Lack of Control Over Pricing
Contracts often grant companies the right to adjust service prices at any time, and they frequently exercise this right. Even as prices increase, the contractual obligations remain unchanged, leaving doctors obligated to pay higher rates than initially agreed.
Hidden Contract Renewals
Waste management companies frequently send updated agreements mid-contract. Without careful review, doctors can unknowingly renew for another five years under the same restrictive terms. Many discover this only when attempting to terminate their contracts, leading to significant frustration.
03 / Why Service Agreements Art Smarter
Service agreements often align better with the financial realities of medical practices. Unlike contracts that impose flat fees, service agreements allow doctors to pay only for what they need. For many small offices generating just a few boxes of waste monthly, this approach is more economical.
For example, reputable waste management companies tailor pricing to reflect the actual volume of waste produced. This prevents overcharging and provides flexibility as the practice’s needs evolve.
Make the Switch Today
Avoid the pitfalls of long-term medical waste contracts by exploring flexible service agreements. For more details about how these alternatives work, contact a representative at MCF Environmental Services.
Robert Losurdo
President, COO
