When you’re researching an upgrade path to your LINAC system, consider all the necessary factors to ensure the continued success of your practice. LINAC machines are essential to every practice that prides itself on providing a complete care solution for their patients.
LINAC machines are understandably complex and rather expensive devices. If budget is a primary concern, then one angle you should consider for your upgrade path is the purchase of a Refurbished LINAC machine.
LINAC machines are not mass produced, as all are handmade, which means that each unit will have unique idiosyncrasies regardless of the manufacturer. As each device is unique from any other, the service history is an all-important consideration to go through before purchase.
Check the beam hours to determine how hard the machine has worked each day. Perform a physical check to carefully examine the device and speak with the clinicians who used the machine on a daily basis.
Refurbishment costs will be a deciding factor in your final choice. There are two types of refurbishment; mechanical and cosmetic. A machine that looks the part in your practice is important, but it’s the mechanical refurbishment that will have the biggest impact on total cost of ownership. Ensure that you have a written record of the services that have been performed.
Another important consideration with a refurbished LINAC system is the installation process. The install team will need to be suitably experienced and understand the machine at both a hardware and software level. Check that guarantees are in place to protect you should your LINAC system fail to meet manufacturer specifications.
The ongoing operation of your linear accelerator will depend on your level of equipment support. Many facilities will opt for the OEM (original equipment manufacturer) to perform all of their maintenance tasks. Refurbished linear accelerators must meet OEM standards before they are able to be sold. When service is performed whether by OEM certified repair technicians or an independent source you will want to ensure that the machine passes OEM acceptance test procedures.
Third party support is always an option for cost savings, but you will need an uptime guarantee in place, along with a minimum response time during emergencies. If a refurbished LINAC is your upgrade path of choice keep the above in mind and you will ensure a long-life for your machine and peace-of-mind for you.
Acceletronics is an independent service company dedicated to delivering the best equipment performance and service reliability from Linear Accelerators and CT Scanners across all major brands and models. Learn more about Acceletronics and their selection of new and refurbished linear accelerators and CT scanners today at http://www.acceletronics.com. To contact one of our LINAC experts call 610.524.3300.