We've developed this page to help you prepare yourself to purchase a used ultrasound and walk into the sale informed. Please call us at 866-347-7633 with your questions, we're happy to talk any time. We'd especially like to hear from you if you're confused or would rather speak to someone in-person. However, if you prefer to do this on your own time, we hope this information will help you find the best ultrasound for your practice.
How do I choose an ultrasound system?
There are a few things you need to know before venturing into purchasing an ultrasound system...
- What will you use this system for?
This is what you'll do on a daily basis, whether it's OB/GYN, veterinary, cardiac, etc.... and you'll want to suggest specific things you do for patients (stress echo, pediatrics, DVT, PICC lines, etc).
- What is your budget?
While nobody likes to answer this question in fear of getting "tricked" into spending too much, it is an essential piece to narrow down your choices. The ultrasound systems we sell range in price from about $5,000 to more than $100,000.
So, to help yourself, choose a range of prices, such as "Under $15,000" or "between $40,000-60,000". This provides a good price window where you can still get plenty of choices.
- Do you have a particular manufacturer preference?
Keep an open mind. While you may love ATL, there may be something else out there that provides more for less money. However, it's always good to suggest the type of system that is preferred to narrow the focus. We can suggest to you newer or better systems by that manufacturer, or may surprise you with what's been successful for someone just like you who was looking for a change. Think about why you like the current system: image quality, ergonomics, service records, etc., this will help us make the best recommendation for you.
- Are you going to trade anything in?
Decide whether you'd like to trade-in your old system. Get all the information you can about this system, as every feature and probe may make a difference in your trade-in price.
- DICOM/Digital
Do you need a DICOM or DIGITAL system? Check out our DICOM section to see if you should get a digital or DICOM system.
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Next, figure out what type of system is best for you.
Set a list of priorities as to what you would like out of your system. Think of things such as:
- Manufacturer choice
- Price
- Size
- Tissue Harmonic Imaging
- DICOM Compatibility
- Color Doppler
- DICOM
- Versatility (good at one or two applications, or a multitude of applications?)
These are many of the same questions we'll ask you in order to help you find the best ultrasound for your needs. Each one of your responses could make a large difference in what's going to be the best choice for you. You're helping us... help you.
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ULTRASOUND BUYER'S GUIDE