Choosing the Mobile X-ray Imaging Equipment for Your Urgent Care

Having a mobile or portable X-ray tool is essential for your urgent care. However, it would be best if you made several considerations to choose a suitable mobile X-ray imaging system. X-ray technology is the most prevalent and commonly used technology for medical imaging. Undoubtedly, a digital radiography system in a medical facility is essential, and urgent care requires portable equipment that helps take a chest X-ray. Therefore, a mobile X-ray machine will be a necessary investment for your facility. But all X-ray machines are not equal. 

Let's first see the various clinical diagnostic features and characteristics of an X-ray radiography system.

Film Radiography

Film radiography involves the usage of silicon films within a cassette present behind the object that needs to be imaged with an x-ray beam exposure. This poses three significant drawbacks: 

· It exposes the patient to a higher amount of radiation (lower in CR and DR). 

· Film needs much more time to develop than CR and DR. 

· Film processing is a consumable expense.

Computed radiography

Computed Radiography (CR) is done with the help of a Phosphor Imaging Plate that captures the digital image. It does not use a photographic film rather, a cassette-based system such as an analog film that combines popular digital methods with classical radiography.

Digital Radiography

Digital radiography (DR) is used in radiography involves the use of X-ray sensitive plates with two-fold function:

1. Directly capturing the patient examination data.

2. Immediate transfer of the data to a computer system 

The data transfer does not require an intermediate cassette like in CR. Instead, the digital radiography system involves the conversion of the image into digital data in real-time. It means you get the review in just a few seconds.

Another advantage DR users get is higher reimbursement rate from Medicare and other third-party payers, which is 7% to 13% higher than CR.

Different Types of X-ray Equipment

Portable-X-ray 

When transfer to the radiology department is not practical, a portable X-ray proves helpful for better patient diagnosis and monitoring, for example, in:

ü Intensive care units

ü Nursing homes

ü Prisons

The portable equipment is helpful for startup facilities where space is a limitation. The transformers in a mobile X-ray machine are small and lightweight. It rules out the need for lead shielding in the walls. Moreover, portable X-ray systems do not involve significant construction or operational costs.

Mobile X-ray 

Mobile digital radiography is one of the latest and most welcome changes in Digital Radiography. Mobile X-ray equipment is wheel-mounted and has large transformers. The users can take or shift the equipment into any part of the healthcare facility. Mobile X-ray apparatus is handy for imaging solutions for non-ambulatory patients or cases where it is hard to move them from one room to another due to significant medical risks.

Mobile X-ray machines have better radiograph and image quality than portable X-ray machines. Moreover, the mobile digital X-ray machine has a higher output than portable machines. Overall, mobile X-ray machines are an efficient way to bring the device to the patient.

Fixed X-ray 

This kind of equipment utilizes transformers of larger size and output. In addition, they need unique electrical connections and must be installed into a room.

Final Words: Digital X-ray Machines for Your Clinic

In a nutshell, the different aspects to consider while buying X-ray equipment for urgent care include:

· Length of Warranty (Covered warranty)

· Frequency and cost of replacement parts 

· Overall cost and required maintenance

· The generator size 

· Integration with PACS (picture archiving and communication system) and DICOM compatibility.

Running the digital x-ray machines needs licensing and/or a technologist for the operations. Always ensure that you are familiar with the X-ray licensing requirements applicable in your state.

Feel free to reach out to us for queries related to DR machines at (sales.enquiry@allengers.net) or call us on our toll free number (1800 266 8800)