Service costs

Dear Flowers

My facility is considering dropping the service contract for our
Calibur, and I need to devise an slush fund for repairs and
maintenance.   Can I get some cost feedback from people operating
without a service contract?  What are approximate costs per month for
maintenance, parts, service, etc.  What company are you using for
service: BD or third-party contractors?  Is this a cost-effective
solution or do you regret not having a defined contract?

I realize the costs will wary greatly from month to month, instrument
to instrument, but any suggestions are appreciated. Thanks.

Alexander Astrakhan
Children's Hospital and Regional Medical Center
Seattle, WA 98102