What to Consider When Buying a C-Arm
If you’re in the market for a new C-Arm, there are some essential things to consider before making a purchase. It’s not just about the initial cost. Other factors include the 5-year cost of ownership, financing, warranty, radiation exposure, room setup, applications training, and mobility. Here we will discuss these considerations in detail so you can make an informed decision when selecting the right C-Arm for your medical practice.
5-Year Cost of Ownership
Looking at the total cost of owning and operating a C-Arm over five years is essential. This includes the initial purchase price and associated expenses, such as service contracts and repair costs, that may arise during this period. At ImagPros, we offer extended warranties and service contracts that cover parts and labor for up to five years after purchase, giving you peace of mind with your equipment investment. Learn more about the 5-year cost of ownership between a new and refurbished C-Arm here.
Warranty
The warranty changes depending on the model of the C-Arm you are considering and whether it’s new or refurbished. For example, a new Skan-C C-Arm comes with 5-year parts and a 1-year labor warranty, while a refurbished C-Arms comes with a 1-year part and labor warranty. It’s essential to understand what the warranty covers and for how long before purchasing.
Radiation Exposure
Radiation exposure is essential when considering which type of C-Arm to buy. For example, the Skan-C C-Arm has a patented radiation technology that reduces exposure. This is beneficial for all practices that use fluoroscopy on a weekly basis.
Other considerations include a lead vest and thyroid collars (two included with every C-Arm purchase at ImagPros). In addition, it’s also a requirement to wear radiation badges that are monitored on a monthly basis. These badges monitor radiation exposure for your doctors and rad techs to make sure they aren’t being overexposed.
Room Setup
It is important to ensure you have enough space in your room to accommodate your C-Arm during procedures. For example, room layouts should be 10×10 minimum, 10×12 is better, and 12×12 or larger is best. Typically these rooms are required to be lead-lined, but requirements differ from state to state.
With each C-Arm purchase, ImagPros offers a free shielding plan, which helps protect staff, patients, and the environment, and keeps your practice in compliance. To learn more about our customized shielding plan click here.
Your room should have a 110v 20 amp dedicated outlet ideally an ethernet cord to plug into the monitor cart, if a large monitor on the wall is desired then having a plug on the wall is needed. Also, if possible having a recessed plug on the floor for the table is nice for reducing trip hazards but not required.
Applications Training
When purchasing any type of medical imaging equipment, you must have access to proper training and education to get maximum use out of your device. For example, the Skan-C and OEC C-Arm have comprehensive training packages that include in-person applications training, live cases, online courses, instructional videos, and live webinars. When you partner with ImagPros, our knowledgeable team of professionals can answer any questions about proper use and maintenance.
Moveability
The moveability of the C-Arm is another vital factor to consider before buying. Skan-C has a 40°over-rotation, while the OEC has 25° unless it’s the Super-C, and these models are hard to find. The over-rotation is important for being able to move the device around to meet your needs. For example, the more over-rotation you have in your C-Arm, the less you have to move the patient around.
Financing
Do you pay cash out of pocket or do you finance? Most of our doctors find that financing is the way to go. This way you’re able to keep the cash in your bank to run and operate your business effectively. Financing offers deferred payments which allow you to get the system in the door making revenue before worrying about any payments. Please also make sure that your financing solution qualifies for IRS Rule 179. This will typically put between 30%-35% of your purchase price back into your bottom line at the end of the year. There are good finance programs and bad finance programs. Be sure to ask about pre-payment penalties, rates, and loan terms.
These are only some of the C-arm options with various features and advantages. By working with a company that specializes in connecting customers with the right medical imaging equipment, you can be sure to find the perfect fit for your practice.
ImagPros provides a wide selection of C-arm systems from the top brands in the industry, as well as installation and maintenance services. Contact us today at 248-951-9020 to find the perfect C-arm for your needs.
