You love your 2D mammography system. It’s been a workhorse for you, it’s delivered the high-quality images you’ve wanted and it’s 
made great business sense for you. But if you’re like most medical imaging facilities, you’re beginning to look at 3D systems. After all, their images are better at detecting cancer than 2D systems, especially in fatty and/or dense breasts. And now that more insurance providers are paying increased reimbursement for 3D studies, it makes more sense than ever to take the leap and invest in a 3D system.
Before you write that huge check for the latest, greatest 3D mammography system, you should consider purchasing a refurbished or used 3D system. Yes, the technology is new, but now 3D systems, like the Hologic Dimensions 3D Tomo Mammography unit are already entering the secondary market. That means you can get great 3D technology at a much-reduced price. You just need to know how to determine if the system is right for you. Here are a few tips that can help you decide whether to choose a used Hologic 3D Tomo Mammography unit for your practice, clinic or facility.
The Age of the Detector Is a Key Factor. Don’t judge a 3D system’s worth by the age of the whole system. What you want to focus on is the detector, as it is responsible for most of the digital mammography system’s value. You’ll want to look on the serial tag on the bottom side of the detector. You’ll see the year that the detector was made. As a rule, newer detectors have less use and therefore more scanning life remaining. However, if the specific system you’re considering has a service agreement that covers the detector, that may make it less of a factor. The service company would be responsible for replacement if it should fail.
Understand The Market Value. The more value the reseller offers, the higher the cost. If you are buying the 3D Tomo Mammography unite “as is,” you could pay between $175,000-$245,000, depending on the unit’s age and the detector’s age. You’ll also pay $15,000-$25,000 for inspection, deinstallation, crating, transport and installation. If you want a comprehensive parts and service warranty, the price will increase and you’ll usually have to make a multi-year commitment. It probably makes more sense to buy from a seller with a turnkey package so you gain the highest value, the lowest risk and the fewest headaches!
Insist on Project Management Services. Yes, you can take on all the moving parts, like inspection, transporting and installation. But if you buy from a seller that has strong project management services and offers applications training and an ongoing service agreement, you’ll reduce your risk, increase the value of your 3D system and make your life easier.
Choose a Reseller You Can Trust. Before you take the leap and purchase a used Hologic Dimensions 3D Tomo Mammography unit, talk to several resellers. Find out about their expertise, talk to previous customers and compare apples to apples. The experts at Atlantis Worldwide would love to be considered as your vendor of choice. We can help you understand the pros and cons of the 3D mammography units you are looking at for your practice or clinic, so you can make a decision that will pay off for you in long run. Contact Us Today!
Here are some blogs you may have missed:
- Choosing A Digital Mammography System: GE vs. Hologic
- When should you evaluate your mammography equipment?
- Mammography or Breast MRI? Which is More Effective?
- The Difference Between Digital Mammography and Tomosynthesis
- 3 Considerations When Choosing a Digital Mammo System
Meet the author: Vikki Harmonay
