Running any type of clinic can get expensive, whether that involves human medicine or a veterinary office. A lot of animal owners appreciate the latest and greatest in treatment technology but might not have the funds to pay for it. Plus, the fact that medical equipment constantly evolves requires constantly updated ultrasound machinery for treatments and scans to go off without a hitch.
How do new, used, and refurbished ultrasound equipment options differ? Choice Medical Systems, Inc. breaks down the differences, benefits, and drawbacks of each type below so that you can make an informed purchase for your practice.
Why Ultrasound Serves a Veterinary Setting So Well
The importance of ultrasound in veterinary settings increases by the day, and it’s surprising how versatile these applications are among different animal owners and breeders.
For example, ranchers with various livestock will breed for meat and animal by-products. They aim to maintain herd health to offer their customers better products. They also want to follow sound breeding practices, so ultrasound offers deep insights that aren’t invasive.
The animal keepers at zoos or aquariums invest lots of money into animals to educate visitors about wildlife. Keeping these exotic critters healthy protects their investment and wildlife preservation efforts. Ultrasound smooths their monitoring and recovery process, often considerably.
Everyday pet owners, too, leverage your ultrasound equipment to become increasingly knowledgeable about their pets’ needs and health. A veterinary care provider with the latest and most reliable imaging equipment helps animals lead longer lives.
Types of Ultrasound Equipment on the Market
You might run into the following product descriptors when shopping for quality ultrasound machines for your clinic:
New Ultrasound Equipment
Purchasing new ultrasound technology gets you something no one else has used before. It’s fresh off the lot, so it costs more than used or refurbished alternatives. However, it’s worth the features, including the latest imaging technology and improvements.
Used Ultrasound Equipment
Purchasing a piece of used ultrasound equipment means no updated features, but this choice is often cost-effective if you’re on a budget. You’re looking at a unit that is five or more years old and has at least one previous owner.
Refurbished Ultrasound Equipment
Purchasing a refurbished piece of ultrasound equipment is another option. It was likely used before a certified refurbishing service updated some parts and software to ensure the machine could still perform well. Refurbished equipment is reasonably priced and often has the latest upgrades installed.
What Does New, Used, or Refurbished Equipment Bring to the Veterinary Operating Table?
Should you spring for a brand-new ultrasound machine or save with a used or refurbished option? Read the advantages and disadvantages below before you buy.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of New Ultrasounds
Many clinics prefer to purchase brand-new equipment. It offers the most recent technology advancements ultrasound developers can muster, plus a few notable advantages of new equipment like:
- Generous warranties
- Perfect function and performance
- Integrated software and features
These facets sound appealing to any forward-thinking veterinary manager, but the price might be less so. New products cost a lot, especially if you’re essentially agreeing to pay more for features that get in your way or you don’t need. A waiting list is also a possibility.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Used Ultrasounds
Since used ultrasound equipment has served at least one previous owner, wear and tear would be a reasonable expectation. Other disadvantages of used equipment may include:
- Zero quality or performance guarantees or warranties
- Unexpected repair needs soon after purchasing
- Fewer modern features
Still, industry experts will usually advise that these disadvantages are rarely a problem. After all, you can reap countless used ultrasound machine benefits that include sustainability, much lower prices, and immediate availability. Quality sellers also ensure everything works and may even cover your purchase with a warranty.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Refurbished Ultrasounds
Refurbished options are often used machines. However, most come with the following perks:
- Performance and quality guarantees (three months)
- Lower costs than new ultrasound equipment
- Careful recalibration, refurbishment, and testing by qualified refurbishers
- Modern technological features to accommodate recent software needs
The main pitfall of purchasing refurbished equipment is that you don’t know who used it and how they treated it. Does it need maintenance within the first year of ownership? It may also look a little rough around the edges if the refurbisher didn’t focus on cosmetic improvements.
Still, refurbished options offer the best of both worlds – cost-effectiveness and ecological sustainability. Accessing modern features also makes refurbished and new machines more attractive than used versions.
What To Consider When Shopping for New, Used, or Refurbished Equipment
Buying quality ultrasound equipment isn’t just about price or tech. How well will it serve your veterinary clinic’s needs? A reputable brand, refurbisher, or dealer also offers greater peace of mind about this important purchase.
At a minimum, factor the following elements into your final ultrasound equipment purchase:
- Availability: New machinery requires wait time. If you need immediate access, shop for used or refurbished units and just deal with the shipping and receiving logistics.
- Capability: Does your practice utilize modern features? For instance, a new or refurbished machine is better if you want 4D imaging and the clearest possible picture.
- Modality: What are you using the ultrasound for most? Imaging superficial structures has different technological requirements compared to scanning deep tumors and monitoring animal pregnancies.
- Cost: How much can you budget for this veterinary equipment? Some manufacturers and providers have installment plans, but brand-new equipment can still be pricey.
- Coverage and guarantees: Do you want lasting warranty coverage or service guarantees? Go for new or refurbished ultrasound equipment.
There are many reputable suppliers of used ultrasounds out there, but remember that not all options are retrofitted and thoroughly checked. Your chosen supplier matters.
Decide What’s Right for Your Clinic With Choice Medical Systems, Inc.
The team at Choice Medical Systems, Inc. carries new and refurbished ultrasound equipment and accessories, such as ultrasound probes for your veterinary practice. If you’re seeking a budget-friendly option, contact us online or call 727-513-7010 to discuss what you need. Our educational resources for staff members are also popular.
