Whether you are looking to replace an outdated CT with the latest technology on the market or a quality refurbished unit, it helps to know your options. The most important factor to start with is understanding your clinical requirements, followed by budget, and preference of model or OEM. Evaluating your equipment needs in this order makes for one of the easiest paths to selecting the ideal system for your organization.
Here are five factors to consider before buying a new or refurbished CT scanner:
1. Techs and Specs
Slice count is the most common differentiator between systems. The slice count is determined by how many cross-sectional images are produced with each rotation of the CT’s gantry. The most common system configuration is the 16 slice CT. These units balance output with value and are ideal for general studies and lower volume clinics. The 64 slice CT is now the industry standard. The increased slice count reduces scan times and allows for more advanced scans to be performed, such as cardiac and profusion studies.
Premium systems push the slice count even higher with 128, 256, 320+ slice versions, and beyond. Combining advanced detectors and software options, these systems are designed to produce very detailed images for specialized applications.
When it comes to specs, the second differentiator is the software set. A modern CT scanner’s capabilities are tied as much to software as they are to hardware specifications. Understanding your clinic is the first step to determine the ideal balance between technical specifications and value.
2. Tube Type and Usage
Commonly referred to as the "tube” or "glass”, the x-ray tube is the energy source of a CT scanner. This component has a limited lifespan and replacing the tube is an eventuality for every CT scanner. Similar to an incandescent lightbulb, the tube has an expected but unpredictable life that will depend on usage, make, and model. When purchasing a refurbished CT scanner, ask about usage on the tube. Usage is typically measured in mAs or scan seconds.
Tubes can be reconditioned or refurbished to extend their useful life. Meridian has the capability to refresh select x-ray tubes to improve their performance, life expectancy and value without having the expense of purchasing a new tube.
3. The Refurbishment Process
Meridian SELECT certified CT scanners are refurbished in an ISO 13485-certified facility. Adhering to the highest quality standards, our refurbished equipment undergoes a comprehensive process to restore each unit to OEM specifications. During the seven-step refurbishment process, a CT scanner is thoroughly cleaned, parts are tested by experts and replaced if necessary, and the system is painted and fully tested before being packaged for delivery. Meridian SELECT certified refurbished equipment meets OEM standards for quality and performance.
4. Financing
Meridian offers a variety of lease types and financing options and a customized solution can be created for you. The most popular options are:
- Lease New (3, 4 and 5-year FMV terms)
- Lease Refurbished (3, 4 and 5-year FMV terms)
- Refurbished Sale
When leasing new, Meridian’s medical equipment experts benchmark the price of the CT scanner against a pricing database to ensure that you are receiving a fair price and thus the lowest possible monthly payment.
Our refurbished equipment offerings are tailored to reduce the underlying equipment cost, resulting in a lower monthly payment for you. Our equipment is backed by flexible terms and tailored financing programs to meet your needs.
5. Support and Service
Acquiring a quality system is step one and maintaining the unit is step two. With new equipment, a 1-year parts and labor service agreement is typically included in the purchase price. With refurbished equipment, service is treated as a line item providing you with more flexibility. Meridian SELECT refurbished equipment includes a 30-day guarantee. Extended service can be offered as:
- Full parts and labor
- Parts only
- Time and materials
Many buyers choose to place their refurbished system under an existing service contract. This may be a multi-vendor, OEM service or Independent Service Provider (ISO) contract. While there are multiple options, we are here to help you make the best choice.
Meridian Leasing’s medical equipment experts ensure the highest quality of new and refurbished CT scan machines for lease and sale at the lowest price. If you’re looking for a CT scanner, the healthcare experts at Meridian Leasing will walk alongside you to help you determine the right machine for your clinical and financial needs. Call +1 (855) 980-4578 or send an email to [email protected] for more details or to speak with a medical equipment specialist.