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This short guide was created to help you understand the basics of ultrasound machines and to help you choose the right ultrasound machine for you.
Features and functions to look for in ultrasound systems
How to find the best ultrasound machine for you
Features and Functions to look for in Ultrasound Systems
Technical Specifications
Your primary application should be the main determining factor when deciding on a specific platform. Although many ultrasound systems are capable of scanning an OB patient, a system specifically built for an OB practice will often include many features and benefits that will produce better scans and reduce scanning times. However, it's still important to consider the basics of any ultrasound machine, such as the frequencies that will be used, the power source, requirements and power output, the size and weight, battery life, and so on. You should question paying for technologies that at not yet reimbursed from insurance. Intima Medial Thickness (IMT) is a great example of added technology that has not yet received widespread reimbursement.
Stationary vs. Mobile
The choice of whether a stationary, installed ultrasound machine or a mobile, portable ultrasound machine would work best for you depends to a large degree on your application, facility and available space. Although portable ultrasounds offer a great solution when you need to move between remote sites, they can be very limiting. Usually only one transducer can be connected at one time, and with the small keyboard many buttons serve dual or triple function adding complexity to the ease of use.
Financing
There may be several financing options to help you acquire ultrasound machines, including outright purchase, traditional leasing, and others.
New vs. Used
When purchasing an ultrasound machine for your organization, you may have the choice of buying/leasing new or pre-owned ultrasound equipment. Just like with most things such as automobiles you can typically save thousands of dollars looking for a pre-owned ultrasound with all of the specifications you need and is a couple of years old. It is best to look for a system that has been under continuous service contract or coverage. Having a system inspection and certification at the time of delivery ensures that the system is in good operational condition and ready for use.
Warranty/Service Plans
Since ultrasound machine is sophisticated machinery, it is important to make sure that maintenance and repairs are considered in the overall value proposition. Most new ultrasound machines comes with normal warranties; one year is the most common but may have a 3-5 service agreement added on to the price. There are some very good, national, non-OEM service organizations that can offer comprehensive service agreements for all pre-owned ultrasound equipment. Before you sign on the dotted line, make sure you understand exactly what will be covered and how. Are the transducers covered if you drop them, are there any limitations on the coverage. You don't want to find out after the fact that you only thought you had coverage.
Training
Unless you and your staff are already proficient in the operation of your new ultrasound machine, you'll want to make sure that training is part of the overall package. Application training may only involve what we call “knob-ology” which is getting the sonographers up to steam on what knobs and buttons do what on a specific ultrasound system. If you are making the jump to a more sophisticated pre-owned ultrasound system, more detailed application training may be required. Make sure to understand what training needs are, both initially and on an on-going basis.
How to find the best ultrasound machine for you
Finding ultrasound machine online is a great way to research and compare several types and models of ultrasound machines and related products. Online shopping can also be a lot more convenient and efficient than having multiple sales meetings with different vendors. Sites which require you call for details such as price or specifications are of little value. In addition to the above considerations, you might want to keep in mind the following items as you evaluate your options:
Price- of course, price should be a consideration for any purchase you make, including ultrasound machines. However, don't make price your only criteria for choosing the best ultrasound machine dealer; make sure to consider total cost of ownership in your calculations.
Selection- finding just the right ultrasound machine for your needs is important, and there can be a significant difference in selection among ultrasound machine sites. Don't just stop on the first site and pick something- do a little bit of browsing among sites first. Go a step further in finding the right ultrasound machine for you, ask your colleagues, peers, and associates if they have had any experience with specific ultrasound machine imaging makes and/or models. Some sites only sell their particular brand of ultrasound machine, look for a site that remains totally independent and whose only goal is to get you the right unit for your need. Some of the top brands to look for are GE, Siemens, Toshiba, and more.
Customer service- the better the online ultrasound machine dealer, the better the customer service they will provide. Look for sites that have extensive FAQ sections, have a friendly interface, and several options to contact customer service (via email, chat, or by phone, etc.).
Shipping- shipping costs add to the total cost of anything you buy online, including ultrasound machine and supplies, but this cost is usually offset compared to buying in a store because you typically don't need to pay sales tax. Make sure that any shipping quotes include shipping insurance.
In conclusion, we hope you have found the information we have put together for you useful. We recognize that this guide was in no way exhaustive, and that there is more to ultrasound machine than what is included here. We suggest that you use the information in this guide as a starting point in your search for the right ultrasound machine for you.
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