Category: Support

In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, diagnostic imaging technology has made significant strides. One of the remarkable innovations in this field is the mobile CT scanner. These units have become indispensable in various healthcare settings, providing quick and accurate diagnostic capabilities on the go. However, choosing the right mobile CT scanner to suit your specific needs is a critical decision.

 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the factors to consider to make an informed choice.

 

Understanding Mobile CT Scanners

Our need for swift and accurate diagnostic imaging has never been greater today. Enter the mobile CT scanner – a technological marvel reshaping how medical professionals approach diagnostic imaging.

 

Definition and Functionality

Mobile CT scanners are imaging devices designed for mobility. They offer the same diagnostic capabilities as their fixed counterparts but with the added advantage of being easily transportable. These scanners operate on the same principles as traditional CT scanners by using X-rays to generate detailed cross-sectional images of the body. They are typically housed in specially designed trailers or vehicles, making them adaptable to a wide range of clinical scenarios.

 

Key Features and Components

Mobile CT scanners come equipped with essential features and components, including an X-ray tube, detectors, a patient table, and a computer system for image processing. They are designed to be user-friendly, enabling quick setup and operation in various healthcare environments.

 

Identifying Your Specific Needs

Selecting the ideal mobile CT scanner for your facility is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. It requires a comprehensive understanding of your specific needs, constraints, and aspirations.

 

Facility or Practice Requirements

Mobile CT scanners are versatile and can be employed in different healthcare settings.

• Hospitals: Hospitals often require CT scanners for emergency situations and to cover imaging needs throughout the facility. High patient volume and diverse cases necessitate versatile and efficient mobile units.
• Clinics: Clinics typically have a lower patient volume than hospitals and might need a more compact and budget-friendly CT scanner. Efficiency and versatility are still key, but space and budget constraints often come into play.
• Mobile Units: These units are often used in remote or underserved areas, offering diagnostic imaging capabilities on wheels. Space and mobility constraints are more significant in this scenario, as the unit must be easily transportable.

 

Patient Volume and Case Types

Your facility’s patient volume and case types impact what capabilities the chosen mobile CT scanner needs to possess.

• High Patient Volume: If your facility sees a high number of patients daily, you’ll need a scanner with quick image acquisition and a streamlined workflow. Multislice scanners are often preferred in this scenario.
• Case Types: Consider the cases you’re handling. If you frequently deal with complex cases like cardiac or neurological imaging, a scanner with high resolution and specialized imaging modes might be necessary.

 

Space and Mobility Constraints

Your facility’s physical layout and space also influence your choice.

• Space Constraints: In smaller clinics, space might be limited. Compact or portable mobile CT scanners could be more appropriate for such.
• Mobility Constraints: If you operate a mobile unit, your scanner should be designed for mobility and quick deployment.

 

Regulatory Requirements

Healthcare regulations are stringent. Regulatory bodies like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) govern the use of medical equipment, and your chosen scanner must meet these requirements.

 

Types of Mobile CT Scanners

Not all scanners are created equal; their differences impact efficiency, patient care, and radiation safety.

 

High-Resolution vs. Low-Dose Scanners

High-Resolution Scanners

• Applications: High-resolution scanners excel in areas such as cardiac imaging, neuroimaging, and detailed anatomical assessments.
• Image Quality: These scanners produce images with exceptional clarity and fine details, making them perfect for complex diagnostic tasks.
• Radiation Dose: They may deliver a higher radiation dose compared to low-dose scanners, so careful dose management is essential.

 

Low-Dose Scanners

• Applications: Low-dose scanners are well-suited for routine diagnostic imaging where high radiation doses aren’t necessary.
• Patient Safety: They are the preferred choice for pediatric, routine screenings, and scenarios where minimizing radiation exposure is critical.
• Image Quality: Image quality is good, although not as detailed as high-resolution scanners.

 

CT Scanner Slices

When choosing a CT scanner, one of the early specifications that come up is the number of slices. In the second-hand market, CT scanners with slice counts of 16, 32, 40, 64, and 128 are commonly available. More recently, 256 and 320-slice CT scanners have also become available. Systems with 4 and 8 slices are still in the market but are being phased out.

 

The number of slices in a CT scanner significantly impacts the time it takes to perform a CT scan. Higher slice counts offer reduced scan times, higher patient throughput, lower radiation doses, and more detailed images with fewer artifacts. Additionally, CT scanners with higher slice counts offer options for advanced imaging, such as cardiac exams. However, a higher number of slices also means a higher price.

 

Therefore, when deciding on a CT slice count, you should balance your clinical needs, patient flow targets, and budget. Doing so lets you determine the most appropriate slice count for your facility.

 

Brands

The major brands of CT scanners are Toshiba (now known as Canon Medical), Siemens, GE, and Philips. All of them have a long-standing reputation for providing high-quality CT scanners, and their used systems hold a high value. You may have a personal preference for a particular brand, so consider this also in choosing the CT scanner for your facility.

 

• https://catalinaimaging.com/rent-ge-mobile-ct-scanner/
• https://catalinaimaging.com/rent-siemens-mobile-ct-scanner/
• https://catalinaimaging.com/rent-toshiba-mobile-ct-scanner/

 

Technical Specifications

The effectiveness of mobile CT scanners in diagnosing medical conditions greatly depends on their technical specifications. The quality of imaging, speed of diagnostics, and management of radiation exposure all play a crucial role in providing the best possible patient care.

 

Imaging Quality and Resolution

• Resolution: Higher resolution scanners provide clearer, more detailed images, which are vital for complex diagnostic tasks such as identifying minute anatomical structures or detecting subtle anomalies.
• Noise Reduction: Advanced noise reduction technologies can significantly improve image quality by minimizing artifacts and enhancing diagnostic accuracy.
• Special Imaging Modes: Some mobile CT scanners offer specialized imaging modes for particular diagnostic needs, such as angiography, which is essential for visualizing blood vessels.

 

Scanning Speed and Throughput

• Scan Time: Faster scanning times reduce patient discomfort and allow for more patients to be examined in a given time, improving overall efficiency.
• Reconstruction Time: Efficient data reconstruction is crucial for quick diagnosis and immediate patient management, so opt for a scanner that can quickly process the acquired data.
• Patient Throughput: The scanner’s ability to handle a high volume of patients is also a significant factor, especially in busy healthcare facilities.

 

Radiation Dose Management

• Dose Optimization: Modern mobile CT scanners are equipped with dose optimization features that automatically adjust radiation exposure based on the patient’s size and the area being scanned.
• Low-Dose Modes: Some scanners offer low-dose modes, which are particularly valuable for procedures requiring minimal radiation exposure.
• Dose Monitoring: The ability to monitor and record radiation doses ensures quality assurance compliance with regulatory requirements.

 

Connectivity and Data Storage Options

• Network Compatibility: Make sure the scanner can connect to your hospital’s network for data transfer and storage, allowing physicians to access images from various locations.
• PACS Integration: Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) integration is vital for efficient image management, retrieval, and sharing.
• Cloud Storage: Some mobile CT scanners offer cloud storage options, which can be beneficial for backup and remote access.

 

Software and Compatibility With Existing Systems

• User-Friendly Interface: An intuitive interface makes the scanner easy to operate and minimizes the learning curve for staff.
• Compatibility With Existing Systems: The mobile CT scanner’s software should be compatible with your existing hospital information systems (HIS) and electronic medical records (EMR) for streamlined workflows.
• Advanced Post-Processing Tools: Many modern scanners include advanced post-processing software for tasks like 3D reconstruction, making them invaluable for complex cases.

 

Finalizing Your Decision

Take the time to weigh the pros and cons of your top mobile CT scanner choices. Carefully evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of each option to determine which one best aligns with your facility’s needs.

 

Pros:

• Optimal Features: Identify the unique advantages and beneficial features offered by each scanner, such as high-resolution imaging, advanced post-processing tools, or specialized imaging modes.
• Efficiency: Assess how each option can streamline your diagnostic workflow, reduce patient wait times, and enhance the overall efficiency of your facility.
• Safety: Consider the measures in place for radiation dose management and patient safety.
• Compliance: Your chosen scanner should be compliant with regulatory requirements.
• Budget Fit: Evaluate whether the scanner aligns with your budget constraints.

 

Cons:

• Learning Curve: Assess the training and learning curve required for your staff to operate the scanner effectively.
• Space: Ensure the scanner’s physical dimensions are compatible with your facility’s available space.
• Technical Support: Investigate the availability and quality of technical support, which is crucial for addressing any issues promptly.

 

Renting a Mobile CT Scanner

In some cases, renting a mobile CT scanner can be a prudent choice. We recommend the following when exploring this option:

 

Research Reputable CT Scanner Vendors

Investigate their track record, experience, and the quality of their products. Look for vendors with a strong reputation in the industry.

 

Customer Reviews and References

Seek out customer reviews to gain insights into the real-world experiences of healthcare facilities that have used the scanner. You may also contact facilities that have used the scanner you are considering and ask for their feedback and recommendations. These references and personal experiences can offer valuable information about the provider’s reliability, performance, and customer support.

 

Contact Catalina Imaging for Your Mobile CT Scanner Needs

We’ve covered the factors to consider in your decision-making process, and we encourage you to take deliberate and informed steps to select the most suitable CT scanner for your requirements. Your choice will ultimately impact the quality of care you provide and the well-being of your patients.

 

If you are considering renting a mobile CT scanner, please do not hesitate to contact us at info@catalinaimaging.com or (844) 949-1664. We are always here to help if you have any questions. Our experienced team of CT engineers can provide you with reliable knowledge and exceptional customer service, making your rental process absolutely seamless.

Feel confident in your mobile CT rental with Catalina Imaging – the nation’s leading provider of mobile imaging solutions.

Mobile CT scanners play a crucial role in fast and accurate assessments of patient conditions as they offer immediate access to high-quality diagnostic imaging. With their mobility, they can be used in emergency situations, surgical planning, routine screenings, and humanitarian efforts, ultimately leading to improved patient care, safety, and outcomes.

 

This article explores Catalina Imaging’s mobile CT brands Siemens, GE, and Toshiba/Canontechnology, comparing and contrasting their capabilities so you can make an informed decision for your healthcare project needs.

• https://catalinaimaging.com/rent-ge-mobile-ct-scanner/
• https://catalinaimaging.com/rent-siemens-mobile-ct-scanner/
• https://catalinaimaging.com/rent-toshiba-mobile-ct-scanner/

 

Ready to enhance your diagnostic capabilities? Get started by filling out this online form or calling (844) 949-1664. Reach out to us today!

 

Catalina Imaging’s Specialization in Mobile CT Scanners

At the core of our mission lies an unwavering commitment to delivering industry-leading mobile CT scanner solutions catering to the diverse needs of healthcare and medical facilities. 

 

With a keen understanding of the pivotal role that mobile CT scanners play in modern healthcare, we are a reliable partner for facilities seeking advanced diagnostic capabilities on the go. You’ll have peace of mind knowing that your facility has access to the most advanced and reliable diagnostic equipment available.

 

Examining the Leading Mobile CT Scanner Brands

Catalina Imaging’s dedication to excellence is exemplified by our strategic partnerships with renowned giants in the medical imaging industry, including Siemens, GE, and Toshiba. Let’s explore the key features and advantages of each brand.

 

Siemens Mobile CT Scanners

Key Features:

• Advanced imaging technology
• Dose reduction techniques
• Rapid scan times
• Customizable scanning protocols
• Comprehensive data management systems
• Offering in Catalina Imaging includes the SOMATOM Perspective 64/128

 

Advantages:

• High diagnostic accuracy
• Patient safety through reduced radiation exposure
• Ease of use with intuitive interfaces, contributing to efficient workflow
• Long-term reliability
• Tailored scans for specific clinical needs

 

GE Mobile CT Scanners

Key Features:

• High-resolution imaging
• AI-enabled dose management
• User-friendly interfaces
• Advanced data management systems
• Offerings in Catalina Imaging include the Revolution Discovery 750HD, 750HD and VCT 64/128 with ASiR

 

Advantages:

• A trusted brand with a long history in medical imaging
• Advanced imaging capabilities for precise diagnostics
• Versatile models catering to different healthcare needs
• Enhanced patient safety with radiation reduction
• Improved workflow efficiency
• Consistent performance over time

 

Toshiba/Canon Mobile CT Scanners

Note: Toshiba Medical Systems has changed its name to Canon Medical Systems Corp, completing the transition to the Canon Group that began in December 2016.

 

Key Features:

• Emphasizes solid-state detectors for improved image clarity
• Dose management features
• Patient-friendly design
• Customizable protocols
• Various models available, including large bore options
• Offerings in Catalina Imaging include the Aquilion Prime 80/160 slice, Aquilion VeloCT 64/128 slice, and Aquilion 64 slice slice systems

 

Advantages:

• Accurate diagnosis with high-quality images
• Patient comfort and safety prioritized
• Contribution to workflow improvement
• Reliable long-term performance

 

Identifying the Best Fit for Different Healthcare Project Needs

When it comes to choosing a CT scanner for your healthcare project, different factors should guide your decision. Each of the major CT scanner manufacturers excels in various aspects. Here’s a breakdown:

 

Aspect	Siemens	GE	Toshiba/Canon
Project Scope	Siemens offers a wide range of CT scanner models suitable for both small clinics and large hospitals. Their versatility makes them a strong choice for projects of various scales.	GE provides CT scanners ideal for larger healthcare facilities with high patient volumes. Their models offer advanced features tailored to meet extensive project requirements.	Toshiba’s CT scanners are known for their adaptability to different project scopes. They are a reliable choice for both small and large healthcare projects.
Clinical Requirements	Siemens excels in cardiac imaging with advanced technologies for cardiovascular diagnostics.	GE offers a comprehensive range of CT scanners suitable for various clinical applications, making them a versatile choice.	Toshiba’s CT scanners are well-regarded for their reliability and image quality, catering to diverse clinical needs.
Patient Volume	Siemens CT scanners are suitable for projects with moderate to high patient volumes, offering efficient workflows.	GE’s CT scanners are ideal for projects with high patient throughput, thanks to their rapid scan times and advanced capabilities.	Toshiba’s scanners are adaptable to different patient volumes, making them a flexible choice.
Space	Siemens offers a variety of CT scanner sizes, allowing for flexibility in accommodating the scanner within your facility.	GE’s CT scanners are designed with space efficiency in mind, making them suitable for facilities with limited space.	Toshiba’s scanners are compact and easy to fit into various healthcare settings, making them a space-efficient choice.

 

Remember that the best choice depends on your specific project needs and priorities. Evaluate these factors carefully to determine whether Siemens, GE, or Toshiba/Canon is the best fit for your project requirements.

 

Why Catalina Imaging Should Be Your Choice for Mobile CT Scanner Needs

A leader in the industry with a focus on cutting-edge technology, unmatched flexibility to meet various project needs, and an unwavering dedication to ethical business practices, Catalina Imaging is your partner in elevating your healthcare institution’s diagnostic capabilities.

 

Leaders in Mobile CT Scanner Solutions

With over 50 years of combined experience, we are committed to delivering top-tier mobile imaging solutions tailored to meet your facility’s unique requirements.

 

Flexibility for Varied Project Needs

Healthcare facilities encounter a diverse range of demands, from long-term diagnostic solutions to temporary project requirements. Catalina Imaging’s mobile CT scanners are designed with this versatility in mind, seamlessly adapting to your specific needs and ensuring you have the right tool for every job.

 

Unwavering Commitment to Professionalism

We hold ourselves to the highest standards of business ethics, emphasizing fairness, truthfulness, and confidentiality in every interaction. This commitment fosters trust and reliability in every partnership with Catalina Imaging.

 

Guaranteeing Quality Service

At Catalina Imaging, we ensure that your facility receives top-quality service by going the extra mile. We have nationwide Service Maintenance Contracts with Original Equipment Manufacturers, guaranteeing that the most qualified service technicians always support your mobile CT scanner. This level of support minimizes downtime, which allows your diagnostic equipment to operate at peak efficiency consistently.

 

Comprehensive Support Beyond Mobile CT Scanners

We are not just another vendor; we are fully invested in your success. Our team also provides expertise in customization, installation, training, and ongoing support.

 

What People Are Saying About Catalina Imaging

Hear it from those who experienced our offerings and services firsthand:

“The first time we used Catalina was based strictly on the referral from an associate, but we called them when we needed a mobile CT service again because they did a good job the first time.”

– Bill Alexander

Radiology Manager, St. Lukes Elmore Medical Center

 

“They provided daily calls to make sure the equipment was working properly, and if there were ever any issues, they were incredibly responsive. We’ve used them twice, and both times were very good experiences.”

– Patty Brodehl

Radiology Manager, Dameron Hospital.

 

“Initially we went with them because of the price and recommendation of someone else. Their follow-up after delivery was great.”

– Marvin Sik

Radiology Manager, Memorial Hospital Converse

 

“We used Catalina Imaging because of their quick response time and flexibility with the duration of the contract. Also, we use Toshiba, so Catalina was a good fit.”

– David Broderick

Radiology Manager, Heber Valley Medical Center

 

“It’s expected that problems will arise when using a mobile imaging service. What impressed me most was how fast they responded and how far they were willing to go to satisfy their client.”

– Ahmed

Radiology Manager, Victor Valley Medical Center

 

“Catalina Imaging was referred to us by another client, and we were extremely satisfied. Everything they did for us was a 10 out of 10.”

– Alice

Radiology Manager, Malcom Grow Medical Clinic

 

Conclusion

In a rapidly advancing healthcare landscape, choosing the right mobile CT scanner is pivotal for ensuring accurate diagnoses and delivering the best patient care. Catalina Imaging’s dedication to excellence and partnerships with Siemens, GE, and Toshiba make us a premier choice for healthcare and medical facilities.

 

By carefully considering each brand’s unique features and benefits, you can confidently select the right mobile CT scanner for your needs. Make the choice that ensures precision, efficiency, and patient safety—choose Catalina Imaging for all your mobile CT scanner requirements. Contact us now or call (844) 949-1664 to discuss your project requirements.

When the economy is booming, hospitals and healthcare organizations can struggle to meet demand. But when times are tight, it’s even more difficult to keep up with rising costs—especially when trying to minimize your facility’s downsizing efforts. 

 

Let us help you find the perfect solution for your mobile medical imaging needs. Call us today at (844) 949-1664 or email us at info@catalinaimaging.com to learn how we can help your practice.

 

Many facilities are forced to make cuts to remain profitable and competitive. However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t ways you can save money without sacrificing services or causing harm to your patient’s well-being. Here are five strategies for dealing with budget cuts without downsizing services.

 

Revise current budget allocations

You should start by looking at where you’re spending your money. Are there certain areas that are getting more funds than they should? Is there an area that has seen a decline in funds but is still as important as before?

 

Looking at previous years’ budgets alongside the current proposed budget can determine the best financial decision. For example, suppose last year there were only two nurses for the entire hospital, and now this year, there are four nurses for the same number of patients. In that case, one thing is clear: Your allocation has shifted from paying for employee salaries to other items like rent or utilities.

 

Obviously, cutting back on employee salaries would not be ideal. However, what matters most is making sure services remain available—with fewer staff members available at any given time during peak hours when demand is highest, and resources are scarce.

 

Negotiate with vendors

Your hospital could benefit from a deeper look at the prices of its most common purchases and services. Negotiating can lead to discounts, incentives, and other perks to help keep your budget in check.

 

If you’re spending too much on medical supplies, consider switching to alternative suppliers offering lower prices on similar products or services.

 

There’s no reason to pay for manual processes like filing or copying documents in the digital age. Consider investing in software that automates these tasks, saving you both time and money while reducing the likelihood of human error.

 

Audit resources and software

In the first step, you should audit your software and IT infrastructure. It’s important to know what kind of technology is available to help maximize your hospital’s efficiency.

 

That also means that you should audit medical equipment and supplies. It may be time for replacement purchases if anything is out of date or nearing its expiration date.

 

Thirdly, it’s important to audit personnel. An employee who has been with the company for years may be better suited for a different task than one who just started two months ago. Evaluating each person’s abilities can ensure that everyone is put into roles where they can excel. 

 

Finally, space must be analyzed as well—areas such as beds and rooms need regular cleaning because germs spread quickly in hospitals! Ensuring that all of these things are up-to-date will help keep costs down while still providing excellent care for patients

 

Coordinate with other facilities

Many hospitals have multiple locations; some even serve as a region’s primary care provider. Take advantage of this if you’re an administrator responsible for more than one facility. 

 

By coordinating between these locations, you can easily eliminate duplicate services and use resources more efficiently. For example, share staff members or equipment between facilities when possible.

 

You may also outsource some services to other providers or vendors who specialize in those areas of expertise. You don’t have to handle every department from top to bottom (and pay for it). 

 

When choosing how much work to keep internal versus outsourcing or farming out entirely (which comes with its own set of risks), consider which skill sets are most critical for success at your organization. Then focus on those areas before considering additional outsourcing options like hiring contractors or freelancers over full-time employees if necessary.

 

Rent out equipment that you don’t often use

It’s a great way to make extra cash and get more out of the items. If you have any spare machines or tools, you can start renting them out to other hospitals. That will help your hospital earn money while also giving other hospitals access to better equipment than they might be able to afford.

 

There are many different types of equipment that can be rented out, but some examples include the following:

 

• MRI machines
• CT scanners
• Operating room tables (OR)

 

Conclusion

With the right strategies in place, you can keep your hospital operating at capacity while saving money. There are plenty of ways to approach budget cuts and make them work for your facility. The key is being proactive and thinking outside the box!

 

• https://catalinaimaging.com/rent-ge-mobile-ct-scanner/
• https://catalinaimaging.com/rent-siemens-mobile-ct-scanner/
• https://catalinaimaging.com/rent-toshiba-mobile-ct-scanner/

 

If you’re looking for a mobile medical imaging solution that will help you feel supported and give you confidence in your diagnosis and treatment—then Catalina Imaging is here for you! For more information, contact us today at info@catalinaimaging.com or call us at (844) 949-1664!

Computer tomography or CT scan is one of the most commonly performed medical imaging examinations to date. But as with any diagnostic test, it requires a team effort. In a nutshell, this team comprises a radiologist (they head the patient care team), nurses and CT technologists. 

 

For radiologists and hospital/medical facility managers looking for a reputable mobile CT scan rental provider, visit Catalina Imaging to learn more about our service. You can also fill out this contact form if you have any questions or requests. 

 

• https://catalinaimaging.com/rent-ge-mobile-ct-scanner/
• https://catalinaimaging.com/rent-siemens-mobile-ct-scanner/
• https://catalinaimaging.com/rent-toshiba-mobile-ct-scanner/

 

 

The CT scan team

Radiologists

They are physicians with specialist training (either residency or fellowship) who are often board certified. After obtaining their doctor of osteopathy degree or medical doctorate, they undergo additional training required by the American Board of Radiology. 

 

The additional training includes the use and interpretation of CT images and the safety standards and protocols, allowing them to interpret the results and send a detailed report to the referring physician.

 

These are the other tasks performed by radiologists: 

• Administer or oversee the contrast injection
• Perform CT-guided biopsy procedures and other similar interventions
• Review the information gathered from the imaging procedure
• Communicate the results to physicians and patients 

 

CT technologists 

They are specially trained to operate modern CT systems and typically receive two or more years of training in computed tomography and X-ray before they obtain their certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists or ARRT. 

 

CT technologists also perform patient examinations under the supervision of a radiologist and administer the contrast injection if required. 

 

Radiology nurses

They are registered or enrolled nurses who care for all patients in the radiology department (either in a hospital or a private radiology practice). 

 

Radiology nurses routinely check IVs, monitor vital signs, administer medications and help patients with their personal needs.  

 

Catalina Imaging: Who We Are

At Catalina Imaging, the CT scanners we use in our trailers are from reputable tech companies like Toshiba, Siemens, and GE. Read more about the models we offer to our partner hospitals and medical facilities. 

• GE’s Discovery 750HD,
• 750HD or Lightspeed VCT64 with ASiR
• Toshiba Prime SP
• AQ Prime 160
• VeloCT or AQ 64
• Siemens Perspective 128 mobile ct 

 

We also have multiple service and storage locations in California, Minnesota, North Carolina and Illinois. You can read more about our mobile CT rental here. 

The imaging department has one of the highest patient no-show and reschedule rates, with one study suggesting that it could be as high as 35%. Meanwhile, failure to keep it under control can lead to a wide range of issues, from lost revenue and delayed patient care to underutilized staff and resources. 

 

If your hospital or medical facility is dealing with high patient no-show and reschedule rates, you need to know the reason behind this trend. But to give you an idea, there are common denominators that mobile CT scanners rental fleet provider Catalina Imaging has noticed: 

• Financial anxiety 
• Lack of communication between the patients and their doctors 
• Failure to understand the procedure instructions 
• Lack of transportation
• Incomplete pre-authorization requirements 

 

Knowing the reasons for patient no-show is critical for creating policies and measures to reduce this costly problem that the radiology departments usually face.

 

How to reduce patient no-show 

As an industry leader with more than 50 years of combined experience in maintaining a mobile imaging rental fleet, Catalina Imaging has come up with this list of tried-and-tested recommendations.

 

Create an effective patient reminder system 

• Ask your patients about their preferred method of reminders (e.g., email, text, and call).
• Set up automatic reminders one week before the scheduled procedure, two days before, and one hour before the appointment. But for appointments that are scheduled more than eight weeks in advance, additional reminders become even more critical to reduce patient no-show rates. 
• Allow patients to reschedule their appointments to fill the vacant spot and avoid underutilized resources and staff. 

 

Follow a streamlined pre-authorization process

• Ideally, there should be a team that is responsible for imaging pre-authorization. 
• Train this team and teach each member to have a sense of accountability. 
• Create a system that immediately resolves pre-authorization delays and makes it easy for patients to reschedule their appointments. 

 

Promote constant communication with patients 

• Ask patients or have them answer a survey to know their preferred method of communication. The idea here is to meet them where they are. 
• If the language barrier is an issue, schedulers should mention that in the patient records. 
• Create electronic medical records that your patients can access independently. 
• Staff should explain the prep instructions and ask the patients about their concerns (finance-related, length of procedure, etc.)

 

Streamline your collection system

• Ideally, require partial payment early on to increase the likelihood of full patient obligation. 
• Be transparent with the prices so the patients will know the price estimates and prepare for them. 

 

Provide transport service 

• Surveys have shown that transport barriers cause a significant number of patient no-shows.
• Offer transportation services or partner with ride-sharing service providers. 
• After implementing any of the measures mentioned above, continue tracking the no-show rates to assess whether they are effective or not.

 

Solving the Dilemma Created by the No-Show Patient

When your patients don’t show up for appointments, it extends your waiting list and wastes your resources (especially staffing). For this reason, you need to implement measures that limit the number of no-shows and reschedules. 

 

Another way hospitals and medical facilities can maximize their resources and avoid revenue loss is to partner with a reliable mobile CT scan rental fleet provider. At Catalina Imaging, we not just provide technical insights but also 24/7 customer support for service emergencies and full-service OEM contracts between 8 am and 5 pm Monday to Friday (except holidays). 

 

 

• https://catalinaimaging.com/rent-ge-mobile-ct-scanner/
• https://catalinaimaging.com/rent-siemens-mobile-ct-scanner/
• https://catalinaimaging.com/rent-toshiba-mobile-ct-scanner/

 

To learn more about how our mobile imaging fleet can meet your short- and long-term needs, contact us here. You can also text or call us at (844) 949-1664 or email us at info@catalinaimaging.com. 

In this article, we combine our 50 years of combined experience as mobile imaging engineers with the feedback of thirteen radiology managers to provide you with the most thorough article available on renting a mobile CT scanner.

See what the inside of a trailer looks like with this video:

 

Why A Mobile CT Scanner?

Renting, leasing, or purchasing a mobile CT scanner can be an excellent interim solution for a variety of circumstances.

The most common call we receive is from the radiology department of a hospital or clinic whose CT machine has gone down. The following are additional situations where an interim solution is beneficial:

• Building/department renovations
• Testing a market
• Low traffic at multiple locations
• Research studies
• Rural visitations
• Avoiding large capital expenditures

What Does It Cost To Rent A  Mobile CT Scanner?

Please email info@catalinaimaging or give us a call for a Mobile CT Quote

Prices will vary depending on the quality of the unit, the make and model of the CT scanner, and whether you’ll be taken care of by an OEM service provider.

Quality Evaluation

The quality of the unit includes:

• Age of the trailer encompassing the mobile imaging equipment
• How well kept up the unit is (fixes, wear and tear, etc)
• Aesthetics (Is it cold and bland or have the look and feel been considered?)
• Comfortability (Is it a tight fit or does the layout allow the patient and nurse to move around comfortably?)

The most common equipment manufacturers are Toshiba, GE, and Siemens. All offer different makes and models of mobile CT units.

Additionally, the unit in the trailer could have been acquired new or refurbished.

Above: Toshiba Aquilion 16 MultiSlice CT Scanner in a Mobile Trailer

A major deciding factor for the radiology managers we interviewed was the brand of the equipment. A hospital or clinic needs the interim CT scanner to tie into its existing technology.

Aligning technologies also makes training staff much easier since they will already be accustomed to the user interface and user experience the brand provides.

The third major component is who will be providing your ongoing service.

OEM Provider vs Third-Party Provider

As one of our study’s more experienced participants put it, “It’s expected that problems will arise when leasing a unit.” This does not mean issues are common. He acknowledges the intricacy of each project.

While third-party service providers can cost as much as 30% lower, more experienced radiology managers know that this can come at a cost.

No matter how you slice it, going with a third-party service provider raises the risk of receiving lower-quality service.

Downtime is very costly and can be a huge headache. The number one and number two priorities of our radiology managers when evaluating what mobile CT service provider to use were directly related to resolving downtime issues. These included customer service and service availability.

If the engineer sent to your site is undertrained or inexperienced this could end up costing thousands more than it needed to, not to mention the stress that comes with dealing with upset patients or higher-ups.

Another consideration; some companies offer 24/7 service with their rental and leasings. Be sure to find out if the companies you’re looking at do.

Extra Costs to Consider

Each mobile imaging company will have its way of handling these extra costs, so it’s important to set clear expectations of what you are responsible for.

Some costs to consider include:

• A security deposit
• Site help, pre-planning, and set-up
• Transportation and delivery
• Applications training
• De-installation
• Cleaning fees

Planning For Your Unit

Because a mobile CT unit is such a specialized piece of equipment the logistics involved in planning and preparing the site are extensive. If you’re working with a company that knows what they’re doing and you make yourself available to work with them then the process can be smooth. The further in advance you plan though, the better.

Above: A trailer that holds the mobile CT scanner.

 

Some logistics to consider include the ability of the truck to maneuver the trailer in place, citing issues such as the levelness and condition of the ground, weather conditions, and electrical requirements.

The pad the unit will be set on needs to be able to support 30 or more tons of weight. It also needs enough space for both the mobile CT trailer and the transportation of patients in and out of the trailer. Both the size of the area needed and the dimensions of the trailer will vary depending on the company.

Above: An overhead view of a mobile CT trailer and the area required for it.

Ongoing Maintenance And Customer Service

As we mentioned earlier, this is a big deal for the radiology managers we spoke with. You’ll want to make sure there are multiple points of contact for situations involving both the trailer holding the CT equipment and the CT equipment itself. If your company is an OEM service provider then your point of contact for the mobile imaging equipment will likely be the OEM.

De-Installation

Once you’ve scheduled a time for the service engineer to come out and unplug everything you’ll want to make sure you remove all patient data. You’ll also need to remove all items you brought into the trailer and you may be responsible for final cleaning.

Conclusion

When searching for a mobile imaging service provider the top three priorities of the radiology managers were customer service, availability, and price, in that order.

When looking for your own company try to run through the checklist of questions provided in this article to make sure they’re up to providing the highest quality service. Renting a mobile CT scanner can be a smooth experience if done with the right company. We hope this article brought some clarity about what that company should look like.

 

Looking for a mobile CT? We love helping new customers!

Contact us today: (844) 949-1664