Choosing an MRI system is dependent upon the applications you seek, patient volume, reimbursement, and space constraints of your practice. In order to select the appropriate scanner for your practice, monitor your MRI volume diligently for 60 -90 days evaluating your patient and scanning needs. Most vendors will assist you with developing a basic business model analyzing the benefits versus cost.

Small and mid size practices generally opt to add extremity MRI systems versus whole body scanners. Extremity MRI systems are dedicated to imaging knees, shoulders, wrists, elbows, hips, hands and feet with exceptional image quality. Being smaller in size allows practices to offer these critical services right in the office so patients can be treated and diagnosed in one visit.

The E-scan Opera from Hologic is a perfect compliment to any musculoskeletal practice. Opera offers an open design, which reduces anxiety and eliminates claustrophobic effects common in conventional MRI scanners. Extremity MRI right in your office meets your needs and those of your patients by combining better business with a fast return on investment with better patient care.

Larger practices with a high volume of spine scans have had great success investing in whole body scanners. Whole body scanners offer complete imaging solutions for the spine and extremities but have higher acquisition and operating costs.

Digital imaging is a wonderful technology that can deliver productivity enhancements and better image quality to your everyday x-ray service. Detector based technology (DR) has speed and image quality as it's main advantages. While a complete discussion is beyond the scope of the space available here, suffice to say that you have several outstanding choices with cassette-based technology (also called CR). CR technology is affordable for most practices. Either way, digital technology is the way of the future.

Digital imaging services require careful consideration of PACS. Once you've generated a digital image with your MRI or DR system, you will need a place to review, store and archive it. PACS systems are scaleable to the size and number of procedures your practice generates and can be configured to suit your needs. Most vendors will work with your MIS department to provide a seamless installation and integration process.