To provide excellent medical care to patients, it’s important to have high-quality equipment that performs well.
However, it’s also necessary to consider the business and financial side—and not just the medical side—to have a financially sound business that can continue to provide care to patients for years to come.
As such, veterinarians, practice managers, and any other team members involved in the financial aspects of a veterinary practice must consider ways to make the most of their equipment investments.
When it comes to finding and using veterinary ultrasound equipment, here are five things to consider to maximize your return on investment while also providing great care to patients…
Purchase the Right Veterinary Ultrasound Equipment for Your Practice’s Needs
When purchasing new veterinary equipment, it’s important to research and see what’s available. What new technology would be exciting and helpful? And what price range should you expect?
While price will always be an important consideration, it’s equally important to ensure you’re getting a machine that performs well, is simple and straightforward to use, and has the features you would like.
For example, does your practice need a portable ultrasound scanner? Does the ultrasound system come with the probe(s) you need or special features like color Doppler? Is it easy to record video and take still shots?
Choosing the best machine for your individual practice will help ensure the ultrasound actually gets used.
Invest in Veterinary Ultrasound Training
Training in the use of veterinary ultrasound equipment typically isn’t covered in nearly as much detail in vet school as radiography is, and most vets require a lot of practice before they feel proficient at this modality.
When a veterinarian doesn’t feel confident in their ultrasound skills, the machine may be used less often and, therefore, would be limited in terms of ROI.
Therefore, it makes sense for any veterinarians using the ultrasound to receive training. Formal, hands-on courses at a conference or wet lab are highly beneficial but expensive in terms of both time and money. Remote training is possible with some veterinary ultrasounds, which allow trainers to log in remotely and guide the user during practice exams.
Additionally, a vet could gain experience when the opportunity arises at work, perhaps by doing some discounted scans for a limited period of time. Teleradiology consultations or training provided by the manufacturer or equipment seller may also serve as valuable learning opportunities.
Make It Easy To Schedule an Ultrasound Study
In order to bring in an income from a veterinary ultrasound machine, it’s necessary to schedule studies for pets who need them.
When any new service is offered at a vet clinic, it can be intimidating for team members to talk to clients about it or confusing to schedule a study. For example, when and how long should a scan be scheduled for, and how many team members are needed?
Discuss ultrasound studies with the team and answer any questions they have, so they may speak confidently to clients, answer any questions clients may have, schedule appropriately, and efficiently set up any supplies a vet may need for the study.
Use a Smart Pricing Strategy for Veterinary Ultrasound
Pricing may be one of the most challenging aspects of running a business. If you price too high, it may be difficult to get the service approved. But price too low, and a practice may lose money on a service or clients might not perceive the value they are receiving.
As with any veterinary service, it makes sense to research or even turn to a veterinary business consultant or financial expert. Learn the going rates in your area, too, as prices can vary widely by location. And of course, factor in the cost of staff time and supplies as well as the monthly cost of the equipment itself.
Finally, talk to team members about how to communicate the value of the service to clients when presenting price estimates.
Protect Your Veterinary Ultrasound Equipment Investment
Equipment represents a significant financial investment for a veterinary practice—so it’s important to take measures to protect that investment.
To keep equipment safe and operational, ask about a warranty, how long it lasts, and what it covers.
Then, see what routine maintenance the manufacturer recommends. While it may seem expensive to have a machine serviced, it could also end up saving a lot of money in the long run by preventing expensive repairs down the line.
Also, consider day-to-day handling of the machine. Always put the probe somewhere safe between scans, so it won’t fall or be chewed on by a pet. Clean the equipment as recommended. And update software as needed to ensure everything stays in working order.
Fully Utilizing Veterinary Ultrasound Equipment Can Be Beneficial for Everyone
Whether you’ve already purchased a veterinary ultrasound machine or are thinking about investing in one in the future, consider these factors to help make the most of your investment.
An ultrasound that is used more often will not only help the practice’s bottom line, but it will also provide crucial diagnostic information for veterinary patients.
In other words, rather than letting a machine gather dust, it can be mutually beneficial—to patients, clients, and the veterinary practice—to make full use of veterinary ultrasound equipment.
Editor’s Note: Learn about three great, affordable ultrasound options that may be perfect for your veterinary practice, here.
