5 Things to Consider Before Buying a CT Scanner

28 Oct.,2024

 

5 Things to Consider Before Buying a CT Scanner

Maximizing Your Imaging Investment: Expert Advice on Choosing the Right Refurbished CT Scanner.

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Pro Tips for CT Buyers. Here are the top questions we receive from buyers purchasing refurbished CT scanners.

Refurbished CT scanners can provide a cost-effective alternative to purchasing new equipment. Here are some tips to help you choose the right refurbished CT scanner, as well as three questions to ask the seller before making your purchase.

3 Tips for Choosing a Refurbished CT Scanner:

&#; Budget. Consider the age and model of the scanner &#; Newer models typically have more advanced features and capabilities, but also tend to be more expensive.
&#; Reputation. Research the seller&#;s reputation &#; Look for a reputable company with a proven track record of providing high-quality refurbished equipment.
&#; Ask for an inspection report. Evaluate the condition of the scanner &#; Make sure the scanner has been thoroughly inspected and tested by a qualified professional, and that all necessary repairs have been made.

Questions to Ask the Seller:

&#; What is the history of the CT scanner and do you have an inspection report?
Can you provide documentation and certification for the refurbishment process and the current condition of the scanner?
&#; What kind of warranty or support does the seller offer for the refurbished CT scanner?
&#; Follow these tips and ask the right questions, to ensure that you make an informed decision when choosing a refurbished CT scanner.

Call us for a quote on a refurbished CT system and view our LIVE Imaging Inventory List 

State Your Goals

The first and most important thing you need to realize is your goal in purchasing a CT scanner. Buying a machine means you&#;ve established a need in your laboratory or medical facility. Focus on that need and define your goals.

  • New or Refurbished?

  • Is the new CT machine for a new range of pediatric, bariatric, or cardiac services?

  • Do your referring physicians need it for studies? If so, what type of studies would that be?

  • What kind of exams will you be using the CT for?

  • Is it for a new hospital building?

 

Technical Specifications

When choosing between CT systems, the specifications will greatly influence your purchase decision. Slice count is one specification that determines how many cross-sectional images can be produced with each rotation of the machine. A 16-slice CT is excellent for general studies and clinics with a low volume of patients. If you like to keep up with the industry standard, a 64-slice CT would be the better option.

There are also high-end CT systems with more features like advanced detectors and software options designed for more specialized applications. Premium systems have slice counts that range from 128-320 or even higher.

Finally, the software that comes with the machine will affect the overall capabilities of the scanner. Understanding your goals and the needs of your medical facility will help you decide which specifications are the best for you.

 

Tube Type and Usage

One of the most vital CT parts to consider is the x-ray tube that acts as its energy source. This particular component has a limited lifespan and is expected to be replaced after a period of use. That lifespan is quite predictable, depending on the machine&#;s make and model. Some machines allow their tubes to be reconditioned or refurbished to extend their life. If you&#;re considering buying a refurbished scanner, be sure to ask about the usage of the tube.

 

Consider the Costs

The price of CT scanners varies significantly because of the vast differences between each machine&#;s technical specifications. The age, demand, model, software package, tube count, and the number of slices it can do all influence the CT scanner&#;s price.

Buying a CT scanner is a lifetime investment, which means you also need to consider the maintenance and repair costs of owning one. If you&#;re running a small clinic, will you be able to cover all the costs? Also, will the new machine bring in more patients and referrals to justify the scanner&#;s use?

 

With competitive price and timely delivery, Neusoft sincerely hope to be your supplier and partner.

Used, Refurbished, or Brand New

Another factor driving the price of the machine is whether it is used, refurbished, or new. Naturally, a refurbished unit will have a lower price up-front. Used CT scanners are more pricey than refurbished ones, but the condition can be a little bit better than refurbished ones, depending on the supplier.

Out of all the three, a brand new one is always the best option. However, considering your budget, getting a refurbished or used unit also works as long as you choose one in good condition. Check all the specifications first before proceeding with your purchase.

 

Conclusion

Purchasing a CT scanner involves a lot of research and consideration. You need to look for a machine with the correct specifications that should be enough to meet your requirements, including your budget and goals. Repair, maintenance, and CT parts replacement are also some of the after-purchase costs you should also take into account.

DirectMed parts and service is the most trusted provider of third-party solutions for medical imaging equipment. We are an ISO-certified company offering parts replacement and repair services to MRIs and CT scanners.

Call us for a quote on a refurbished CT system and view our LIVE Imaging Inventory List 

Additional Resource.

See LBNs CT Buying Guide with additional information. LBN Medical is a subsidiary of DirectMed.

 

5 Factors to Consider When Buying a New or…

Jeff Hough

Whether you are looking to replace an outdated CT with the latest technology on the market or a quality refurbished unit, it helps to know your options. The most important factor to start with is understanding your clinical requirements, followed by budget, and preference of model or OEM. Evaluating your equipment needs in this order makes for one of the easiest paths to selecting the ideal system for your organization.

Here are five factors to consider before buying a new or refurbished CT scanner:

1. Techs and Specs
Slice count is the most common differentiator between systems. The slice count is determined by how many cross-sectional images are produced with each rotation of the CT&#;s gantry. The most common system configuration is the 16 slice CT. These units balance output with value and are ideal for general studies and lower volume clinics. The 64 slice CT is now the industry standard. The increased slice count reduces scan times and allows for more advanced scans to be performed, such as cardiac and profusion studies.

Premium systems push the slice count even higher with 128, 256, 320+ slice versions, and beyond. Combining advanced detectors and software options, these systems are designed to produce very detailed images for specialized applications.

When it comes to specs, the second differentiator is the software set. A modern CT scanner&#;s capabilities are tied as much to software as they are to hardware specifications. Understanding your clinic is the first step to determine the ideal balance between technical specifications and value.

2. Tube Type and Usage
Commonly referred to as the "tube&#; or "glass&#;, the x-ray tube is the energy source of a CT scanner. This component has a limited lifespan and replacing the tube is an eventuality for every CT scanner. Similar to an incandescent lightbulb, the tube has an expected but unpredictable life that will depend on usage, make, and model. When purchasing a refurbished CT scanner, ask about usage on the tube. Usage is typically measured in mAs or scan seconds.

Tubes can be reconditioned or refurbished to extend their useful life. Meridian has the capability to refresh select x-ray tubes to improve their performance, life expectancy and value without having the expense of purchasing a new tube.

3. The Refurbishment Process
Meridian SELECT certified CT scanners are refurbished in an ISO -certified facility. Adhering to the highest quality standards, our refurbished equipment undergoes a comprehensive process to restore each unit to OEM specifications. During the seven-step refurbishment process, a CT scanner is thoroughly cleaned, parts are tested by experts and replaced if necessary, and the system is painted and fully tested before being packaged for delivery. Meridian SELECT certified refurbished equipment meets OEM standards for quality and performance.

4. Financing
Meridian offers a variety of lease types and financing options and a customized solution can be created for you. The most popular options are:

  • Lease New (3, 4 and 5-year FMV terms)
  • Lease Refurbished (3, 4 and 5-year FMV terms)
  • Refurbished Sale

When leasing new, Meridian&#;s medical equipment experts benchmark the price of the CT scanner against a pricing database to ensure that you are receiving a fair price and thus the lowest possible monthly payment.

Our refurbished equipment offerings are tailored to reduce the underlying equipment cost, resulting in a lower monthly payment for you. Our equipment is backed by flexible terms and tailored financing programs to meet your needs.

5. Support and Service
Acquiring a quality system is step one and maintaining the unit is step two. With new equipment, a 1-year parts and labor service agreement is typically included in the purchase price. With refurbished equipment, service is treated as a line item providing you with more flexibility. Meridian SELECT refurbished equipment includes a 30-day guarantee. Extended service can be offered as:

  • Full parts and labor
  • Parts only
  • Time and materials

Many buyers choose to place their refurbished system under an existing service contract. This may be a multi-vendor, OEM service or Independent Service Provider (ISO) contract. While there are multiple options, we are here to help you make the best choice.

Meridian Leasing&#;s medical equipment experts ensure the highest quality of new and refurbished CT scan machines for lease and sale at the lowest price. If you&#;re looking for a CT scanner, the healthcare experts at Meridian Leasing will walk alongside you to help you determine the right machine for your clinical and financial needs. Call +1 (855) 980- or send an to [ protected] for more details or to speak with a medical equipment specialist.

If you want to learn more, please visit our website neusoft ct scanner.