Your dedication to
making sure your patients receive the most accurate results from their MRI
tests is the reason why you only want to go with the best replacement parts for
your Hitachi system. At the same time, there’s the need to keep the spending in
line with the budget. When and as you do need replacement parts, it pays to
weigh your options carefully. Here are some possible approaches to consider.
Used Components
When there is the need to save money, opting for used MRI parts is often the
first thing that comes to mind. It’s not unusual for used components to come
with the lowest price tag on the market, even when they happen to be original
parts for the equipment you own.
Keep in mind you are assuming some risk by choosing to install used parts. Even
those that are gently worn will only have a certain amount of life left. Is it
really worth the savings if you have to replace that same component a year or
so down the road? If not, then you need to investigate other options.
Refurbished Components
Another way to go is to look into the purchase of Hitachi refurbished parts.
These will be restored to factory standards and are likely to come with some
type of limited warranty. That makes them a better option in general than used
parts, since you do have at least some protection.
In terms of saving, expect refurbished parts to cost more than their used
counterparts. Before assuming the price is really all that great, compare the
unit cost with the expense of purchasing a brand new component. Unless there is
a significant difference, you will be better off purchasing the new part.
Third Party Components
When a manufacturer ceases production on parts for certain models of imaging
equipment, it’s not unusual for a third party producer to take up the cause. In
theory, that third party will employ the same standards as the original
manufacturer.
Your best bet is to only go with this option if original parts for your imaging
equipment cannot be obtained. That includes considering the purchase of used
parts. After all, you know for a fact that the original Hitachi parts were
produced according to standards. The third party parts may or may not live up
to the originals.
New Original Components
Given the importance of accurate results, the most practical choice is to go
with new original parts made by Hitachi. This may be the most expensive
approach, but it offers advantages that you will not enjoy any other way. The
components do come with warranties that cover a broader range of possible
events, including equipment failure due to some type of factory defect. If a
certified professional cannot repair the part, your odds of getting a
replacement at no additional charge are quite high.
Remember that your first commitment is to your patients. They deserve the most
accurate readings, since that paves the way for determining the type of
treatment they need. While it may be possible to cut corners on office supplies
and in some other areas of the business, stick with original Hitachi
replacement parts for your equipment. In the long run, you’ll enjoy a higher
level of performance and your reputation in the local medical community will remain
positive.
Thanks to the magnetic
resonance imaging equipment you have on the premises, it’s possible to provide
answers for patients sooner rather than later. In order to ensure the equipment
remains in top condition, it pays to work find the MRI service company that can
provide you with the level of service and supported that you desire. Here are
some points to keep in mind when comparing the offerings of different
companies.
Range of Replacement Parts Offered
Many companies manufacture imaging equipment, but not every service company
carries parts that are compatible with all those systems. For you, it’s
important the service company you choose always has access to parts that are
ideal for your unit. Most will be happy to provide a parts list, allowing you
to determine if what they keep in stock is compatible with the system you use.
If not, then it’s time to see what a different company can provide.
Service Plans
Do you need a service plan other than the one offered by the manufacturer?
There’s a good chance that having a plan through your service company is in
your best interests. Ask about plans, and determine if the scope of support
offered would be a good fit. For example, does the plan include regular checks
and free calibrations? How much would an emergency service call set you back?
Remember that with the service plans offered by some manufacturers, you may pay
less up front, but end up paying a lot for help with the upkeep and
maintenance. By opting for a plan offered by a provider, you may be able to
avoid the higher expense on the back end. This is especially true when the
monthly fee associated with that service plan fits neatly into your operating
budget, and the agreement provides a number of services for free or at a
greatly reduced rate.
Manufacturer Accreditation
As with many types of equipment, it’s important to work with a service company
that has received accreditation from at least a few manufacturers.
Accreditation lets you know that any technicians who do work on your systems
are trained to manage the repairs in line with the standards set by the
manufacturer. Ask if the maker of the units you use certifies and accredits the
company. If so, it’s worth your time to talk with the representative about what
else the service company has to offer.
Industry Reputation
It never hurts to ask around and find out what other medical professionals have
to say about a given service company. Does the company have a reputation for
responding quickly when help is needed? How about the amount of time it takes
to obtain replacement parts and complete the repairs? Are there any hints that
the company tends to add on unexpected charges when billing time rolls around?
If what you hear is mainly positive, then the company is worth considering.
Remember that your goal is to choose the service company that will help you
keep the imaging systems in your practice in the best possible shape. Take a
close look at what is available, and never settle for less than what you need.
Doing so will ensure that you get the most returns from the original
investment, and are always ready to provide support to your patients.
There’s no doubt that
your patients have benefited from the ability to undergo magnetic resonance
imaging. While there are other methods like X-rays, CT scans, and ultrasounds
that aid in detecting issues without the need to do exploratory surgery, MRI
can provide more information and make it easier to settle on a course of
treatment quickly. Given the advantage that the equipment provides for you and your
patients, it makes sense to keep the imaging equipment in top condition. Here
are some reasons why replacement parts make more sense than buying something
brand new.
The Equipment is in Generally Good Condition
While there is a loss of efficiency, it all tracks back to one worn component.
Why junk what is otherwise excellent equipment because of the one part? In many
cases, replacing the one component will restore the imaging equipment to full
efficiency and save your practice a great deal of money. Best of all, the part
replacement will take less time than the installation of a new unit. That means
a minimum of rescheduling for you and your patients.
Protecting Your Investment
MRI equipment does constitute a major investment in your practice. While it
will certainly pay for itself over time, choosing to have a professional come
in and replace things like the cold head when the unit seems to be burning off
too much helium extends the live of the machinery. More years of use makes it
all the easier to recoup the original investment and begin to really enjoy the
returns from that purchase.
Upgrading is Easier Than You Think
Technology in general continues to evolve. That is certainly true when it comes
to imaging equipment. What you may not realize is that even with advances in
technology, your older unit can often be enhanced so that it performs at the
same level as the new machinery on the market. A professional can let you know
what type of enhancements can be done and how they compare with what newer
models have to offer.
The upgrades provide you with the best of both worlds. Along with keeping
equipment costs within reason, you are still able to provide the most accurate
assessments for your patients. Depending on the nature of the condition under
investigation, the accuracy of the test results can make a huge difference in
terms of successfully treating the ailment.
Maintaining the Resale Value
When you do decide to move on to newer imaging equipment, something must be
done with the older system. If you’ve made sure the older unit is in top
working condition, getting a reasonable price for it allows you to enjoy one
last return from the original investment. Your diligence in maintaining the
system also means that another healthcare professional will be able to serve
more patients in a different setting.
Remember that the goal of using magnetic resonance equipment is to get answers
quickly about what is happening with patients. Choosing to maintain your units
and ensure they are in top working condition improves the odds of finding
answers to what patients are experiencing, and making it possible to begin
treatments sooner rather than later. Don’t take chances by trying to get by
with a part that is not in top shape. A professional can help you find the
right part, arrange for the repair, and ensure you always get the best possible
test results.
Adding an MRI machine
to your business is a costly investment, which is why it is important to
identify which type of machine is right for your office and for your patients.
Various practices have different needs based on their clientele, and buying the
wrong machine can be a wasted investment rather than a benefit to your
practice.
Closed MRI
Since their introduction in 1977, MRI machines enclosed the patient in the
chamber to diagnose issues with the internal body structure or diseases that
may be present in the patient. While this removes outside interference, it also
causes stress for patients who are frightened of or simply unaccustomed to
being in tight, enclosed spaces. The trauma resulting from the experience could
inhibit patients from repeating the process in the future, thus exposing them
to more health risks that could be identified through MRI.
Closed MRIs also posed difficulties with pregnant or severely overweight
patients, as their girth may create a tight and uncomfortable fit in the
chamber. Because the MRI testing is lengthy and relies heavily on the subject
remaining still, children and infants are often sedated. These considerations
also must be taken into effect for the well-being of the patient.
Open MRI
The answer for claustrophobic patients came in the 1980s with open MRI
scanners. However, due to their openness, they must operate at a lower magnetic
field than closed scanners, making their scans inferior to closed MRI scans.
The recent introduction of commercial tesla systems has increased the image
quality of open MRI scans, making them more attractive.
The benefits of an open MRI far outweigh the costs associated. Not only does
its open design relieve claustrophobic patients from feeling encased in a box,
it allows anyone accompanying the patient to be readily available to comfort
them during the procedure. Open MRIs also have the ability to concentrate on a
singular body part that would otherwise be difficult to center on in the closed
MRI. Patients also will not experience the loudness associated with closed MRIs
because the openness allows for the sound to escape, providing a more
comfortable experience for the patient.
Additional Costs
There are potential additional costs to the patient or their insurance provider
based on the machine chosen. Patients anticipating a closed MRI may experience
higher anxiety that would require the patient to be sedated for the test.
However, sedation is not always a guarantee that the patient will be able to
relax during the test, and an additional test in an open MRI may be warranted.
Service
Because of their sensitivity, MRI machines need regular maintenance to make
sure imaging is calibrated properly. It is important to find a reliable,
experienced company to provide quality service that won’t dramatically increase
the costs associated with owning an MRI machine. However, it is necessary to
keep the machine in good working order to maximize your investment, so regular
service is worth the cost.
While cost is always a factor with purchasing anything for the office, some
investments are necessary for the enhancement of your business. The benefits of
having an MRI machine in the office far outweigh the costs in terms of patient
care, immediate results and business progression. With thoughtful
consideration, adding an MRI machine to your practice will be well worth the
investment.
