Ultrasound portable buying guidance

Ultrasound portable buying guidance

Looking to buy a pre-owned portable ultrasound machine instead of a larger, more expensive, console system? Secondary equipment is an effective way to minimize cost. Clinicians can save anywhere from 40-60% depending on the specific portable system you need.

Is it time to decide which model is best for you? Before making a purchasing decision, be sure to carefully review these important factors.

Technical Specifications

Your primary clinical application need should be the main determining factor when deciding on a specific
portable ultrasound machine.


1. Although many systems are capable of scanning, still we have to consider for patient, included features that will produce better
fetal scans, reduce scanning times and reduce patient anxiety.

2. However, it's still important to consider the technological basics of any ultrasound machine, such as
scanning frequencies, power source, power requirements and power output, size and weight desired,
battery life and monitor size.

3. Image quality should also be a key concern. An ultrasonographer examining blood flow or an artery
blockage will want the clearest on-screen image to help speed diagnosis and treatment, but you may also
need multiple types of images to make the best diagnosis.
How Portable is Portable?

Whether a mobile cart-based system, a hand-carried unit or a PDA-sized scanner would work best for
your practice will depend largely on your clinical needs, facility and available space. However don't
discount the technical ability and desires of your staff, and your future growth plans, when choosing the
portable ultrasound system that is right for your office.

Warranty and Service Plans

A portable ultrasound machine is a piece of sophisticated machinery. It is therefore important to ensure
maintenance and repairs are considered in total cost of ownership. Many national, non-OEM service
organizations offer comprehensive service agreements for refurbished ultrasound equipment. Before you
sign on the dotted line, make sure you understand exactly what will be covered and how. A typical oneyear
warranty should come with quick response times, on-site repairs, and all parts and labor included.

Tested by Manufacturer-Trained Staff

Any refurbished medical devices you purchase should be tested by staff trained in accordance to the
OEM’s specifications. That way, you can be sure that the used portable ultrasound system you buy not
only meets technical and cosmetic requirements but may in fact exceed them as well.

Training

Unless you and your staff are already proficient in the operation of your new ultrasound machine, you'll
want to make sure that training is part of the overall package. At the very least, the vendor should provide
you and/or your ultrasonographer with a basic review of the features on the day of delivery. If you need
more in-depth training, you and your entire staff may need training over several days, which is more
comprehensive but also more expensive. If you are making the jump to a more sophisticated pre-owned
ultrasound system, more detailed application training may be required. Make sure to understand what
your training needs are, both initially and on an on-going basis.

Customer service

Getting immediate customer service is critical. You should look for a vendor who provides several
methods to contact them if you have a question or problem.

Shipping

Shipping costs add to the total cost of anything you buy online, including ultrasound machine and
supplies. Make sure that any price quotes you receive include shipping insurance.