There’s no doubt that medical imaging equipment like MRI scanners is a revolutionary invention in the healthcare industry. But while it does have an integral role in pushing the quality of your facility’s diagnosing capabilities and treatment, MRI scanners come at a hefty price.
The investment may not be worth it for smaller clinics with little-to-no patient demand, though medical facilities that don’t cater to a high traffic flow like established cardiac institutions can settle for the next best thing: pre-owned MRI scanners.
The thought of buying second-hand equipment seems sketchy at first, especially when it comes to a 1.5T MRI scanner. But it can offer value to your establishment, especially when you buy the right one at a bang for the buck price. Still, pre-owned equipment doesn’t have the same level of security newer models offer, so there are critical questions you need to consider before taking the plunge.
Questions You Should Ask Before Buying a Pre-Owned MRI Scanner
1. Is the Company Selling the Pre-Owned MRI Scanner Trustworthy and Reputable?
Many companies in the healthcare industry sell pre-owned and refurbished medical imaging equipment, but just like any third-party seller versus OEM, it’s critical to make deals with established businesses. With that in mind, be sure to do extensive research on the company by reviewing their website and asking for an interview so you can discuss relevant terms.
It’s also a good idea to consult with previous customers to gauge the credibility of the sellers and ensure they have a physical office that you can visit too! Companies like DirectMed Parts can connect you with legitimate sellers with their buy-back and selling programs.
2. Do You Know What Your Facility Needs?
Not every imaging center needs 32-channel coils with a 3T magnet, especially since you’ll be paying top dollar for services that you won’t necessarily provide. It’s tempting to get the highest upgrades with state-of-the-art features, but it’s a moot and expensive effort if your facility doesn’t have the demand to generate a good return on investment (ROI).
3. Does Your Time Frame Allow It?
Buying an MRI scanner can take time, disrupting your operations, especially if you add the four-week-long installation process. This can serve as a bottleneck to your productivity, so if your facility demands scanners immediately, then it’s better to consider renting a mobile MRI in the meantime.
If you have the luxury of time to plan for your purchase, it’s wise to start your search three to six months ahead of time so you can freely look for the best pre-owned equipment in the market.
The Bottom Line: Important Factors to Consider When Buying Pre-Owned MRI Scanners
When buying something as critical and costly as MRI scanners, even when they are pre-owned, it’s important to make the most of your investment by choosing models that meet your facility’s specific needs.
This includes the features that you will actually use, your available timeframe, as well as your budget! It can be tricky to vet the perfect second-hand equipment, but working with reputable third-party vendors should ease your worries and offer you deals worth your penny.
Why Choose DirectMed Parts and Services?
If you’re high-quality medical imaging parts to upgrade your clinic, DirectMed Parts offers the best and most reputable sources for your OEM needs. We specialize in providing CT and MRI parts and coils, but you can contact us for our exceptional repair services. Whatever your OEM needs, we can deliver!
