Describe how fax machines, copiers, scanners and multipurpose devices can be beneficial for a consultant.

Documents often need to be sent back and forth between a consultant and a client. Fax machines allow for rapid transmission of printed documents that cannot or should not be e-mailed. Fax machines are affordable and easy to use. A consultant may also need to scan documents to email to clients, so a scanner may also be a desirable piece of equipment. However, the consultant should be aware that unencrypted email does not always meet HIPAA security requirements; therefore, the consultant should not transmit documents containing protected health information to a client across different networks by regular email. There are companies that offer HIPAA compliant email systems.
If copies need to be made on a regular basis, then a copy machine should be purchased or leased. Copiers range in price from hundreds to tens of thousands of dollars. If purchasing or leasing a copier, also consider the cost of toner and other supplies, which can add quite a bit to the operating costs of some machines. If copies are not made that often, using a local copying service may be more feasible.

An alternative to buying several different pieces of office equipment would be to purchase a multipurpose machine that acts as a printer, fax machine, scanner, and copier. Prices for these devices are very reasonable, and they can save substantial office space.