Machine Procurement
Guidance on purchasing ultrasound equipment
We have all been there — with so many machines and models available, where do you start? Full featured POCUS machines can run anywhere from $80,000 to very limited machines that cost a couple of thousand. Which is best for your practice? The answer is highly individualized and dependent upon individual/program needs and mission, resource availability and constraints, and practice or academic environment.
Financial Disclaimer
SPOCUS can help you navigate the waters of this huge capital purchase, but we want all our members to understand we do not have a financial relationship with ultrasound manufacturers. This means we don't make any money from the sale or referrals.
Academic Pricing
There is a distinction between "academic pricing" and retail. We have partnered with some ultrasound manufacturers to provide academic pricing for our members; however, these units are intended to be used for learning purposes only. Billing studies using these machines is prohibited.
- General Electric has agreed to offer our members special pricing on the Vscan Extend Dual Probe — now below $5,000.
- Another manufacturer has included SPOCUS members in their academic pricing. Probes are leased and plug into a commercial tablet or Windows-based phone. A dual probe system costs about $250/month on a year lease with no other capital expenditure required.
Additional Considerations
- Keep in mind that the machine is not the only item you will need — probes are by far the most expensive and fragile part.
- You may also need software that interfaces with your EMR or DICOM/PACS for ordering, documentation, and image storage (e.g., QPath).
- Consider purchasing a used machine with a warranty, or an off-brand machine.
Resources
- Critical Care Northhampton ultrasound reviews — @wilkinsonjonny reviews six handheld devices
- Ultrasound Podcast — compares the Butterfly iQ to Philips Lumify
If you are looking for a retail purchase, we would be happy to assist you, provide advice, and put you in touch with reputable ultrasound manufacturers. We have great insight on features, reputation, service, warranty, durability, archivability, and image quality. Contact us at spocusadmin@gmail.com.