People in the market for an MRI system would have encountered the term “end of life” when looking at OEM-refurbished machines. Tagging a machine as “end of life” is a common tactic to push customers to newer models. However, knowing that MRI parts are end of life is not enough. You should know the context and understand the terminology for you to make a better decision.
What “End Of Life” Means for MRI Systems
Typically, “End of Life” means that the OEM has not produced new units of this model for ten years or more. Sometimes, OEMs use this term to suggest that you could have difficulties obtaining field service or spare parts if you purchase this particular machine. In reality, the challenges you will face are probably made to appear larger than they are. Besides, upgrading to a new MRI model is sometimes not justifiable from a financial perspective.
What Problems Do “End Of Life” Machines Pose?
This designation should not be a cause for serious concern. Machines with this tag were once very successful models as well, and any model with well-serviced, well-maintained MRI parts can last for many years, sometimes beyond the designated “End Of Life” period. Your medical facility will still benefit from these machines as long as they undergo regular checks.
The best vendors of refurbished MRI systems also ensure that they do justice to the machines by doing functional testing. These vendors ensure the availability of these machines’ spare parts so that any client who needs replacements could have them as soon as possible. If not, the vendor might probably not be able to justify their service contracts.
What’s more, trusted vendors with stocks of “End Of Life” parts find it easier to service and maintain these machines. The process becomes more cost-effective since their engineers will have plenty of hands-on experience in maintaining these models.
Secondary dealers have comprehensive inventories of spare MRI parts for models like these. They can support your system for the next ten or more years. In some instances, you can find some models with high demand in the secondary market, even if they have been discontinued.
What Is the Best Way to Decide on a New System?
Do not buy a machine for your facility until you have considered the advantages and disadvantages of getting a new MRI system versus a refurbished one. Your decision should depend on your business outlook, and the best person who can answer that question would be you.
Keep in mind that many refurbished models that are OEM-discontinued still scan well and provide high-quality images. There are many models in high demand today that can fulfill most clinics’ or hospitals’ needs. Some of the most common refurbished models are below:
- Siemens Symphony
- Siemens Espree
- Siemens Spectra 3T
- GE Twinspeed Excite
- GE Optima 450w
- GE Excite HDxt
Conclusion:
Refurbished but discontinued MRI systems save you money over newer models. As such, they provide you with more resources you can use in serving your patients. When choosing a machine, ensure that you do your due diligence and balance your facility’s needs and the machines’ cost.
At DirectMed, we provide MRI parts and repair services for a range of models. We are ISO 13485:2016 certified, and we operate with the same guidelines as OEMs. Contact us today for more information!
