Do you know the difference between used and refurbished medical imaging equipment? Does anyone? I decided to look online and see what people’s comments and questions were. I was surprised—and not surprised—by the level of confusion out there. Some people thought that “used” means the equipment is still working and can be sold again. Some thought “refurbished” means the equipment is broken and scratched, then cleaned up and repaired and sold for lower price. Others thought that used equipment was sent back to
the factory for minor repairs and was then wrapped in plastic and sold as refurbished.
I like Wikipedia’s take on things. “Refurbished products are normally tested for functionality and defects before they are sold, and thus are the approximate equivalent of certified pre-owned cars. The main difference between "refurbished" and "used" products is that refurbished products have been tested and verified to function properly, and are thus free of defects, while "used" products may or may not be defective.”
Now that we’ve got that straightened out—the big question is, “Which kind of medical imaging equipment is best for me?” It’s important to note that any medical imaging equipment comes with a hefty price tag. So it comes down to is how you are going to use it, and what is your budget?
Used Medical Imaging Equipment
“Used” medical equipment generally refers to systems that are sold “as-is”, meaning that there has been no repairs or maintenance to the equipment. It usually costs less than refurbished, and usually has no warranty coverage. Oftentimes the buyer has to arrange for the system to be de-installed and moved. However, here at Atlantis Worldwide, we also provide de-installation services for buyers who request it.
Refurbished Imaging Equipment
“Refurbished” medical imaging equipment is fully tested, cleaned, calibrated and upgraded with new parts. (To check out Atlantis Worldwide’s refurbishment process for C-Arms, click here. For other modalities (like a CT Scanner) the refurbishment process may include the installation of a new x-ray tube, upgrading software to the latest version, replacement of parts and cosmetic repairs. Since an MRI does not have as many moveable parts, there may not be many steps to refurbish it, unless it is broken or quenched. However, there could be coil repairs, software upgrades and cosmetic fixes.
Why Refurbished or Used Medical Equipment Rocks
1. Used & Refurbished Imaging Equipment generally costs half as much as new. Woo Hoo!
2. Refurbished medical equipment sold by Atlantis is fully installed and includes a one-year service
3. Reimbursements are the same whether you buy used or refurbished.
4. Third-Party Service Providers and OEMs will happily service a refurbished system.
5. Late model technology is available.
6. There is a great supply of most modalities and models.
As with any investment, you should always buy from a trusted source that guarantees quality. If you need help buying pre-owned equipment, please give Atlantis a call. We’ll happily guide you through the process and help you determine which choice is best for your needs. That's why our tagline is “Sensible Solutions for Refurbished Radiology!”
Please contact Alex Silbergleit at 212-366-9100 or email alex@atlantisworldwide.com for more information
Some blogs you may have missed:
- How Much Does it Cost to Lease a C-Arm?
- 15 Great Comparisons: Imaging Equipment: C-Arms, CT, Mammo…
- Extend Your CT Tube Life by 40% or Greater
- Mammography or Breast MRI? Which is More Effective?
- Service - Maintenance - Refurbishment - Trading In
Meet the author: Vikki Harmonay
