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.
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.
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