ABOUT US
What are LMC Buying Groups and how do they work?
The sole purpose of LMC Buying Groups is to save their member practices money by negotiating discounts on goods and services which practices regularly buy. They do not actually buy anything or supply practices directly. By coming together with others, as part of the LMC Buying Groups Federation, we have been able to centralise much of the activity this entails, namely negotiating with suppliers and identifying approved suppliers who guarantee our practices significant discounts over what they would otherwise pay for their services, in return for our endorsement and help in bringing what they offer to our members’ attention.
Does it cost us anything to be part of an LMC Buying Group?
No. All practices paying the LMC statutory/administrative levy or equivalent are automatically eligible to become members free of charge. We regard this as an ‘added value service’ which LMCs are able to offer practices. Should any practice cease to pay their LMC levies, they will no longer be able to access the benefits this initiative will bring.
Is there any obligation to take up the deals offered?
No. Each practice is free to take-up or decline any of the deals we have negotiated. Practices are given contact details and all communications take place between them and the individual supplier.
What if I find there is something I want to buy that is not included in the suppliers list of discounted items?
If you tell the supplier, they may be able to offer you a special price. If not, click on the ‘contact us’ button to inform our negotiating team. We may be able to secure its inclusion as an additional item.
What if I am not happy with the quality of goods or service supplied?
We always want to know if you encounter any problems getting what you want or are dissatisfied in any way and will do our best to sort it out. As stated above, you are not obligated to use our recommended suppliers although the more business they obtain, the keener will be their desire to keep the business and the cheaper the will be the prices they offer to us in future!
If my LMC Buying Group becomes part of the Federation, can I expect to receive information direct from your approved suppliers as well as from the LMC?
Yes, you may receive information direct from the suppliers on occasion, but sparingly, and only with your LMC Buying Group’s full knowledge and permission. They will also permit suppliers to telephone surgeries occasionally and in specified circumstances. You will not, however, be pestered with cold calls.
How do I access the information I want about all the deals available through my LMC Buying Group?
To access the information click on 'Services'. You will then need to input your practice user name and password. If you have forgotten it, or not received it you can click on the forgotten/lost password? link on the same page and submit the request password form.
For further information about the LMC Buying Groups Federation contact Chris Locke, Chief Negotiator, Trent LMCs Buying Group c/o Nottinghamshire LMC, Duncan Macmillan House, Porchester Road, Mapperley, Nottingham NG3 6AA Telephone: 0115 9555440 Email: chris.locke@nottslmc.co.uk