Are you building an Urgent Care Center in your community? If so, you’ll need to determine which type of X-ray equipment will be the
best choice. Is portable X-ray the right choice for you or would mobile X-ray equipment make more sense?
Many Urgent Care Centers have opted for Fixed X-ray medical imaging equipment. However, this requires a dedicated X-ray room. Because of the size of its transformers and output, Fixed X-ray rooms require special electrical equipment, including the installation of a high power AC line (230V). In addition, the room cannot be used for any other purpose. Since most Urgent Care operations reside in smaller facilities, most have to choose between portable, mobile or fixed X-ray equipment.
The medical imaging experts at Atlantis Worldwide put together this information to help you determine the right X-ray option for your Urgent Care Center.
Let’s take a closer look at Portable and Mobile X-ray options.
Portable X-ray
With Portable X-ray systems, you don’t need lead sheltering in the walls. The transformers are small and don’t weigh a lot. Portable X-ray devices come with a stand on wheels, while others are motorized or Handheld. Plus, there is little to no construction costs and can be operational quickly. They are ideal for low volume or startup facilities with limited space. It is a great imaging tool for diagnosis and monitoring of patients.
Mobile X-ray
Mobile Digital X-ray equipment can bring imaging services to any room in the building. It reduces the need to move the patient from room to room. Mobile equipment delivers higher output than portable machines. Mobile X-ray equipment consist of a wheeled cart that is powered by an electric motor supplied by a battery that assists the movement. The X-Ray system consists of a motorized drive, compact wheelbase that includes the generator, an x-ray tube attached to a positioning column and an exposure control panel. Different types of detectors can be used as listed below.
Computed Radiography (CR) And Digital Radiography (DR) and Film
Computed Radiography uses a Phospor Imaging Plate to capture a digital image rather than using photographic film. Like analog film it uses a cassette-based system. Most consider it a bridge between classical radiography and fully digital methods. Because digital methods are increasing in popularity, CRs are receiving reduced reimbursement rates from Medicare and third-party payers. The rates are reduced from 7-13% on average, which makes DR a smarter financial decision.
Digital Radiography uses X-ray-sensitive plates to directly capture data in real time during the patient examination. It immediately transfers the data to a computer system without the use of an intermediate cassette like CR and can be reviewed within seconds. This can be used in both Fixed or Mobile use.
Film Radiography uses silicon films within a cassette being placed behind the object to be imaged and exposed to an X-ray beam. There is a higher risk of exposing patients to more radiation. In addition, the film takes longer to develop and at higher ongoing expense than with both CR and DR.
Specifications of portable and mobile x-ray systems are different between OEM products and models although basic features are common.
Still Unsure Which Is Best For Your Urgent Care Facility?
It’s a big decision and the wrong choice could be costly. Talk to a medical imaging expert at Atlantis Worldwide. We’ve been helping healthcare providers make the right choice for more than 27 years. Plus, oftentimes it can be more affordable to choose refurbished or used medical imaging equipment, while still getting the performance you need. We’re here to help!
For more information, contact Atlantis Worldwide today!
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- 4 Tips on X-Ray Tubes
- CR to DR: Digital Radiographic Upgrades And Options
- The 101 On Veterinary X-Ray Equipment
- MRI Infographic: Closed Bore, Open MRI & Wide Bore
- Six Key Considerations for Radiology Equipment Selection
About the author: Vikki Harmonay
