Purchasing a digital x-ray system can feel overwhelming at times with so many different options and configurations available. It can be hard to sift through the choices to find which system is best for your facility. It is essential to ask the right questions in order to find the digital x-ray system that best meets your needs.
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At Patient Image, we have been assisting businesses to find the digital x-ray systems that suit their budget and their needs for years and we would love to help you choose the x-ray system that&#;s right for you too. We've compiled a list of questions that will be helpful when purchasing a digital x-ray system.
What kind of facility will the x-ray system be in?
When it comes to x-ray systems, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The type of facility that the x-ray system will be used in is one of the first things that needs to be considered. Is it a chiropractic clinic, a veterinary practice or an after-hour surgery? Is it an urgent care facility or a high volume imaging center? Is it a small hospital or a large clinic?
The type of facility is going to determine what type of x-ray system should be purchased. For example, a high volume imaging center is going to need a different x-ray system than a small hospital. If it is a chiropractic facility, you're going to need a wall stand and you're probably not going to need an x-ray table.
What&#;s my patient volume?
When you're looking at different digital x-ray systems, one of the things you want to keep in mind is patient volume. How many patients are you going to be seeing on a daily basis? And how many x-rays are you looking to take? That's going to contribute to determining what type of digital x-ray system is going to best suit your needs.
If you're expecting a high volume of patients, then you're going to want a system that can handle that. So patient volume is an important factor to consider when choosing a digital x-ray system.
What space do I have available?
Another key consideration is the space requirements for the x-ray machine. You need to know the length, width and height of the room, as well as understand where the walls, windows and doors are situated. This will help you determine what type of system will fit within the allocated space.
For example, some systems are wall mounted, however, if you have a room full of windows you might need to invest in a floor mounted system. In areas that have less space, a straight arm x-ray system might be a better solution. By understanding your spatial requirements, you can ensure that you select an x-ray machine that will be a perfect fit for your needs.
Our clients are using x-ray systems in:
- Chiropractic Clinics
- Podiatry Practices
- Urgent Care Hospitals
- Orthopedic Clinics
- Veterinary Practices
- General Radiology
At Patient Image, we have solutions for all types of budgets and clinical applications. We have Digital X-ray Panels and Systems for all clinical specialties including NUCCA, Upper Cervical, Chiropractic Biophysics, and more. We also have a wide range of products that work in hospitals, imaging centers, and radiology departments.
If you are unsure what system fits in your space, please don&#;t hesitate to speak to us at Patient Image and we can advise you on the best system for your unique space.
Do I need a table?
If you choose to use a table for your workflow or clinic you&#;ll need to determine which table option is best for you. A stationary table can have a reflow table top, which allows the table top to flow from left to right. There&#;s also an elevating table which allows the table to drop down to where someone in a wheelchair could easily access it. The elevating table is a great option if you have patients or clients with mobility issues. The reflow table top is a great option if you need to be able to move around your workspace easily. Stationary tables are also a good choice if you have a lot of equipment that needs to be stored on or underneath the table. Choose the table that best fits your space and your patients. And when in doubt, ask the experts at Patient Image team what other clinics are using.
Do I need a mobile or stationary x-ray system?
One of the key decisions when considering a new x-ray system is whether to choose a mobile or stationary system.
Stationary x-ray systems
Stationary x-ray systems are usually found in traditional x-ray rooms, which are designated solely for taking x-rays. These rooms often have lead lining to protect operators from radiation exposure, as well as an operator area that provides additional safety measures.
One advantage of stationary x-ray systems is that they are typically more powerful than mobile units, making them ideal for larger patients or procedures that require higher doses of radiation.
You often find these stationary x-ray systems in larger clinics or clinics with larger patient volume. However, mobile units offer greater flexibility, as they can be used in a variety of settings without the need for special equipment or accommodations. As a result, mobile x-ray systems are increasingly popular in both hospitals and clinics around the country.
Mobile x-ray systems
The mobile x-ray system is an excellent alternative for clinics that would have great difficulty installing a stationary system or need the x-ray system more frequently. This mobile environment is helpful in a lot of areas where they don't necessarily have a room large enough, or the workflow requires them to move from one place to the other.
Mobile x-ray systems are great for clinics that may have multiple rooms or special requirements that make it very difficult to install a stationary system. For example, a clinic that has multiple rooms where they want to bring the x-ray into each room to x-ray the patient would be a great candidate for a mobile x-ray system. By having a mobile x-ray system, it enables them to be much more agile and efficient in their workflow and get patients through quicker.
What type of DR panel do I need?
DR panels are the piece of equipment that makes the x-ray system digital. They capture the image and then send that image to the computer. Chiropractic clinics typically will go with a 17x17 tethered DR panel. This is because the DR panel is usually fixed into the wall stand and doesn't need to be moved from the wall stand to a table.
On the other hand, in urgent care you're more likely to see a 17x17 wireless panel that will fit in both the wall stand as well as the table, and can be moved back and forth. DR panels come in different sizes, but the 17x17 is most common.
When choosing a DR panel, it's important to consider what type of clinic it will be used in and what the application scenario will look like. In some very high volume clinics, you may use a dual detector system. That is where a 17x17 DR panel is placed within the wall stand as well as in the table so that you don't have to move it.
Should I choose new or used x-ray equipment?
At Patient Image, we want to make it as easy as possible for you to find an x-ray solution that suits your needs and your budget. We offer a range of used equipment that might be of interest to you. From portable x-ray machines to floating tables, used mobile lead shields and used careray wireless DR panel packages, on our website you can find a range of products that might work in your clinic. Please don&#;t hesitate to speak to us about used equipment if this is of interest to you.
Newer models often come with longer warranties - meaning that you'll be covered in the event that something goes wrong. With used equipment, you might save money upfront, but over time, you could end up spending just as much, or even more, on repairs and maintenance. New equipment is also likely to be more reliable and efficient, meaning that you'll save time and money in the long run.
So when making your decision, be sure to weigh all of the factors before deciding whether new or used x-ray equipment is the right decision for you. We are here if you want to bounce some ideas or get advice from our expert team.
The biggest mistake people make when buying an x-ray system
When you're opening a new medical practice, it's important to consider what your future needs might be. For example, if you're a chiropractor, you may start by only doing x-rays of the spine. However, as your practice grows, you may find that you need to do more x-rays of extremities. This would require a different x-ray system.
Similarly, if your patient volume increases, you may need a new or bigger x-ray system to keep up with demand. It's important to think about these future needs when you're first setting up your practice, so that you can choose the right equipment from the start.
In conclusion
There are a lot of digital x-ray systems on the market these days, and it can be tough to know which one is right for your needs. But don't worry - we're here to help!
Here are a few questions to ask yourself as you start your search for the perfect digital x-ray system for your needs:
- What kind of features do you need?
- What is your budget?
- What size space do you have for the x-ray system?
- What types of patients will be using the system?
Answering these questions will help you narrow down your options and choose the digital x-ray system that's right for you. If you want help choosing the right digital x-ray system for you, contact our team today! Our team of experts can assist you in determining what kind of x-ray system will work best for your facility and budget.
*This post is part of two pillar blogs: The Ultimate Radiation Shielding Guide and Radiation Shielding Doors 101
Introduction
Radiation shielding doors are crucial in environments where radiation exposure must be controlled and minimized. These doors protect people from harmful radiation, ensuring safety in medical, industrial, and research facilities.
So much so that they are often referred to as the last line of defense for those working in and around your radiation source.
This article will guide you through everything you need to know about choosing the right radiation shielding door for your specific need so you&#;ll be able to make the right decision when the time comes for your business.
Let&#;s get right into it!
Understanding Radiation Shielding Doors
Before we talk too much about how to choose the right shielding door, let&#;s cover the basics of what these doors are, and how they work.
Like we mentioned at the top of the article, we&#;ve actually done a deep dive into the basics of these doors in our radiation shielding doors 101 article.
In the next few sections, we&#;ll talk about what these doors are, and some common uses for them.
What are Radiation Shielding Doors?
Radiation shielding doors are specially designed to block or attenuate radiation. They are constructed with materials like lead, steel, concrete or other composites that prevent radiation from passing through.
Common Uses and Applications
Radiation shielding doors are commonly used in hospitals, laboratories, and industrial facilities where radiation safety is a concern.
For more info on all the industries where these doors are applicable, check out our radiation shielding industries article.
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Types of Radiation Shielding Doors
Okay, now that we have talked about what these doors are, and where they&#;re commonly used, let&#;s look at some of the most common materials or &#;types&#; of doors that we typically will install for our customers.
Want more information on x-ray door? Feel free to contact us.
After we look at materials, we&#;ll compare sliding vs swinging functionality.
Lead-Lined Doors
Lead-lined doors are the most common type due to lead&#;s high density and excellent shielding properties. These doors are typically done by using interlocking lead bricks or sheets.
For shielding situations that require a higher level of aesthetic considerations, having a door that can be customized to meet the look of the environment it&#;s being installed into is very important.
Steel Shielding Doors
Steel shielding doors use dense steel to block radiation. They are durable and provide robust protection, making them suitable for many applications.
They are not as dense as lead, so these doors will be slightly thicker. However, they are also typically added to other types of shielding materials for a cost-effective solution.
Concrete Shielding Doors
The most cost-effective type of shielding door is one that is made of concrete. It is also by far the largest door, so it is really only used in situations where you already have a concrete vault in place, and plenty of space for the door to be. Check out this photo of a large concrete door we constructed for our client.
Sliding vs. Swinging Radiation Shielding Doors
Now that we have talked about the two most common materials, let&#;s look at the main (and only) ways the door can function: sliding, and swinging.
Sliding Radiation Shielding Doors
Sliding doors are ideal for spaces where swinging doors might be impractical. Think of a small control room that leads to a vault. When sliding, a door can remain flush to the wall like it is in this example.
Sliding doors also offer the ability to provide larger openings using a single sliding door, or by using a bi-parting set of sliding doors.
Swinging Radiation Shielding Doors
Swinging doors, on the other hand, are easier to install and maintain, and are ideal for situations where you have a bit more room, and you want to save some money on the controls aspect of your door.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Radiation Shielding Door
Okay, so now you know what these doors are, what they&#;re made of, and some basic controls options that exist for them. Here&#;s what you should also consider when making your selection.
Radiation Type and Intensity
Different types of radiation (e.g., X-rays, gamma rays, neutrons) require different levels of shielding. Knowing the type and intensity of radiation is crucial in selecting the appropriate door and should be directed by the shielding study performed by a licensed physicist.
Door Location and Space Constraints
The location of the door and available space can determine whether a sliding or swinging door is more suitable. Consider the operational needs of the space.
Door Size and Weight
Larger and heavier doors provide more protection but require more robust support structures and hinges. Ensure the location of your door can accommodate the door&#;s size and weight.
Budget Considerations
While safety is paramount, budget constraints are also a factor. Balance between adequate protection and cost-effectiveness. This is very important, and something we take seriously at AVM Group.
Custom vs. Standard Doors
Whether this is your first time getting a shielding door for your facility, or you&#;ve been through this process before, selecting your custom door can be tough. Luckily, we&#;ve laid out some key considerations for you.
Before we jump into this section, we should note that AVM Group offers both standard MatterDoor designs and designs that are fully customizable. that are fit for any application.
When to Choose Custom-Made Doors
Custom-made doors are ideal for unique spaces or specific shielding requirements that standard doors cannot meet.
Typically, a lot of the customization comes from the type of door, and the way it functions.
Advantages of Standard Doors
Standard doors are usually less expensive and quicker to procure than custom doors. They are suitable for common applications with typical shielding needs and have standard requirements. You can expect this to take less time to manufacture and install than a customized door.
Conclusion
Choosing the right radiation shielding door involves careful consideration of various factors, including the type of radiation, location, material, and budget. By understanding your specific needs and doing thorough research, you can ensure you select a door that provides optimal protection and meets all regulatory requirements.
If you&#;d like to talk to our team about your next shielding door, contact us.
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