Equipment is one of the most important investments a veterinary practice will make.
That’s especially true for equipment like an x-ray system—an integral part of a veterinary clinic that will be used every day, to diagnose and care for patients.
When looking to buy an x-ray machine, it’s important for the management team to maximize this investment—to consider some key factors that will help with selecting the best x-ray system for the practice and maximize its use after the purchase.
Key factors include…
Veterinary X-Ray Machine Specifications
Purely practical considerations include factors such as the size of the machine and whether it fits into the space designated for x-rays in a veterinary practice.
Electrical supply requirements are also important, as many units can’t be plugged into a regular wall outlet. So, it may be necessary to plan for an electrical supply modification, unless purchasing a unit that operates at a lower voltage.
Additionally, be sure to check that the machine meets any other specifications you’d like to have. For example, is the unit for CR or DR, and is a plate included? will the system produce high quality images for all the types/sizes of patients your practice sees?
Functions of the Veterinary X-Ray Machine
In addition to core functions for x-ray studies, take a look at any additional features that are included and how they can make your day easier or add value to your practice.
For example, maybe the software allows for measurements (such as vertebral heart score) and image processing.
Or, maybe the machine offers an additional function such as Video X-ray, as a 2-in-1 digital x-ray and fluoroscopy system is available.
X-Ray System Usability
A veterinary x-ray machine is of the most value to a practice when it is used often and efficiently.
But if the team finds it difficult to use, that can make each study take longer or even decrease the number of studies that vets at the practice can schedule.
Having an easy-to-learn and easy-to-use system will help ensure that x-ray studies are as efficient as possible and maximize the use of the system for a better return on investment.
Software for the Veterinary X-Ray Machine
If your system includes a digital x-ray detector, it’s important to think about how your software collects, saves and shares images.
Is it simple and intuitive to use? Is it fast? How easy is it to store and share images, and is there a limit on storage?
Also, how often are updates needed, and what is security like?
X-Ray System Cost
Of course, cost is a key consideration for any veterinary equipment purchase. However, that doesn’t mean that cheaper is always better.
Since your veterinary imaging equipment will be with you for years and influence the treatment plan for many patients, it’s important to get a machine that helps the practice operate at its best.
So, look at all the above factors before comparing costs. Then, figure out the best way to afford the machine you’d like to purchase. For example…
- Ask your equipment seller about any special deals, especially if you use any of their other products or services.
- Learn about financing options. An affordable monthly payment could allow a machine to pay for itself each month.
- Think of ways to communicate the value of radiographs to clients, as well as strategic pricing strategies for x-ray studies, to ensure the machine gets used to its full potential.
- Plan for maintenance costs and learn what your warranty does and does not cover.
- Research section 179, tax advantages for business equipment purchases.
Of course, sometimes it will make sense to go with an option primarily based on price, especially for small practices that don’t perform many x-ray studies. However, for many veterinary practices, purchasing the best machine for their needs will pay off in the long-term, even if that specific machine isn’t the cheapest option.
Finding Your Ideal X-Ray System
Finding the best veterinary digital radiography system may seem daunting, but it can also be fun and exciting.
Make sure to look at all the factors that will affect long-term use of the machine, return on investment, and daily workflow, in addition to simply looking at cost and features. That way, your new veterinary x-ray machine can help you provide the best possible care to your patients while also adding to your practice’s bottom line.
