An investment in 1.5T veterinary MRI needs to make fiscal sense for the practice, in addition to meeting the growing expectations of the pet owner. As the demand for advanced diagnostic tools in veterinary imaging continues to rise, offering cutting-edge technologies while also ensuring a solid return on investment is a must. However, balancing these priorities can be challenging. That’s where Hallmarq Veterinary Imaging comes in.
Investing in MIRA, Hallmarq’s 1.5T MRI, is a financially sound decision for practices looking to avoid the pitfalls of purchasing and maintaining second-hand equipment, such as outdated technology, reduced reliability, and increased maintenance costs. Evaluating the total cost of ownership (TCO) before investing in a 1.5T MRI helps ensure a well-considered and financially responsible decision is made.
Adding 1.5T MRI Capabilities to Your Veterinary Practice
Image quality is paramount in veterinary neurology, but investing in 1.5T MRI is about more than just improved diagnostic accuracy. It’s also about ensuring long-term financial sustainability and the advantages that come with that commitment, such as:
- Expanded Diagnostic Capabilities: Attract new clients and retain existing ones by offering comprehensive care
- Earlier, more accurate diagnoses: Enhance service quality and provide peace of mind to pet owners
- Position your practice: Elevate your reputation as a leader in small animal care
New or Used? The 1.5T Veterinary MRI Dilemma
Veterinary practices might consider a refurbished human MRI machine due to its lower initial cost. However, this can be a false economy in the long run. Typically, refurbished MRI systems tend to have higher maintenance costs and lower reliability. Conducting a thorough TCO analysis over ten years can reveal that alternative options, like Hallmarq’s 1.5T veterinary-specific MRI, offer better value over time.
1.5T MRI Savings Exceed $1m over Ten Years
The cost comparison below (Table 1.) illustrates the financial advantages of investment in Hallmarq’s 1.5T MRI over and above a second-hand human MRI machine:
The Hallmarq 1.5T MRI solution provides superior long-term value with cutting-edge technology, dependable performance, and reduced downtime.
Jim Catullo, Small Animal Sales Director, North America
Cost Saving Benefits of Hallmarq’s 1.5T MRI
Lower Installation Costs
Hallmarq’s 1.5T MRI features a self-shielded design, eliminating the need for an RF shield in the MRI suite. Additionally, Hallmarq’s unique zero-helium design means no quench pipe is required, leading to upfront savings of at least $120,000 on site preparation costs.
What’s more, Hallmarq’s 1.5T MRI system is brand new and built – specifically for veterinary practice – to last for at least 10 years. By contrast, a second-hand ex-human health MRI machine, while cheaper, will typically need replacing after only 5 years, meaning the purchase of a replacement machine. Furthermore, removing the initial MRI and replacing with the purchase of this second machine mid-term will incur the following costs:
- Purchase of replacement MRI – $360,000
- A second delivery and implementation fee – $68,000
- Rent of a temporary trailer for 8 weeks during switch over – $50,000
- Repairs to the RF shield following building works during switch over – $25,000
- Decommissioning and extracting the old system – $35,000
- Total of $538,000
Reduced Running Costs
- Helium: Traditional 1.5T veterinary MRI systems require helium, costing approximately $20,000 per year in refills. In addition, a helium quench could cost up to $50,000. Hallmarq’s 1.5T MRI is 100% helium-free, eliminating these expenses and offering an eco-friendly solution.
- Software Upgrades: Hallmarq provides ongoing software updates at no extra cost. Its likely a second hand MRI will require significant software upgrades every 4 or 5 years and cost around $30,000.
- Power Saving: By utilizing the Hallmarq 1.5T MRI, practices can reduce energy consumption by approximately 15% (around 75,000 kWh annually) contributing to both cost savings and improved environmental performance in line with ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) goals.
- Guaranteed Uptime: An ex-human MRI typically has around 96% uptime, leading to approximately 10 days of downtime per year. For a practice performing two scans per day at $3,500 per scan, this results in $70,000 in lost revenue annually. Hallmarq systems, with built-in reliability and exceptional service support, help minimize costly downtime, further enhancing overall savings. We guarantee uptime above 99%.
Over a ten-year period, savings in the order of $1.3m are achievable when choosing Hallmarq’s 1.5T MRI over a second-hand human machine.
Comprehensive Support
Hallmarq is quite different from other 1.5T MRI options. Being veterinary-specific, our systems and business processes are all organized around supporting veterinarians and helping maximize their ROI. Hallmarq offers exceptional support through a dedicated team of service engineers, resolving most issues remotely to minimize disruptions. For on-site needs, they provide fast, proactive assistance to reduce downtime and costs.
Our comprehensive training programs—available on-site, remotely, or on-demand—ensure staff are well-prepared to operate the 1.5T MRI efficiently, maintaining smooth operations and reducing learning curves for new staff.
Additionally, Hallmarq provides marketing support and access to an online community with exclusive content, CPD resources, and updates on the latest advancements in veterinary imaging.
Cost, Complexity and Commitment
Of course, cost is not the only consideration when researching veterinary MRI. We appreciate that installation can be a complex process. That’s why the challenges of installing, running, servicing, and supporting an MRI machine have been carefully addressed by our team.
Hallmarq is a one-stop shop. I didn’t need to worry about selling a used magnet, finding an installer, or arranging maintenance. Hallmarq produces, delivers, installs, and supports the entire system.”
Adam Moeser, DVM, DACVIM (Neurology), Wisconsin Vet Neurology and Surgical Center
Installation Options to Suit Your Space and Budget
With in-hospital space at a premium, zoning regulations, and complex building works to consider, Hallmarq offers flexible options for installing MIRA at your practice:
In-hospital MRI room installation
If your hospital has available space then a purpose-built MRI suite is the ideal solution. With MIRA’s self-shielded, helium-free design, there’s no need for an RF shield or quench pipe, simplifying installation and reducing costs.
Modular MRI room installation
If indoor space is limited, our modular installation provides the ideal solution—no construction required. Unlike MRI trailers, which come with reliability issues and the added challenge of being four feet off the ground, our modular rooms offer seamless access for both patients and staff, ensuring a smoother, more efficient workflow.
Hallmarq’s Imaging Technology – What Sets it Apart
Unlike standard human-grade MRI machines designed to image human anatomy, Hallmarq’s 1.5T MRI technology is specifically designed to image the unique anatomy of dogs and cats. In considering the needs of both patient and practitioner, Hallmarq 1.5T MRI delivers more precise and detailed images to aid faster diagnosis.
- 16-channel self-shielded design: Experience better patient positioning and image acquisition
- Elongated small, medium, and large head coils: With removable tops for easy patient positioning
- V-shaped spine coil: Eliminate frequent re-positioning
- Phased array: Two simultaneous coils for greater coverage and a better signal
Knowing that your MRI machine will stand the test of time as the advanced imaging revolution continues is important.
AI for Enhanced Veterinary Imaging
There is no doubt that AI is here to stay and that its application in human and veterinary medicine is highly anticipated. While a second-hand 1.5T MRI machine will come with pre-installed software, new AI capabilities will be difficult and expensive to install and operate on second-hand machine. At Hallmarq, annual MRI software upgrades are included in your annual service and support package at no extra cost.
With awards for innovation and industry recognition from bodies such as the Institute of Physics, Hallmarq is known for its forward-thinking approach. Its Research and Development team continues to develop veterinary-specific software and protocols for enhanced image quality. The result is faster scan times and more accurate images for a more conclusive diagnosis.
Improved Patient Outcomes for Client Satisfaction
Hallmarq’s advanced imaging systems are designed to improve diagnostic accuracy, enabling veterinarians to identify issues earlier and develop more targeted treatment plans. With quicker, more reliable diagnoses, animals receive timely care, resulting in improved health outcomes and faster recovery times. This leads to higher client satisfaction, as pet owners gain confidence in the quality of care provided by the practice.
Ultimately, by investing in advanced imaging solutions, practices foster stronger relationships with their clients, promoting trust and long-term loyalty. Pet owners are more likely to return to a practice that delivers superior care and comprehensive services.
Conclusion
Hallmarq’s 1.5T MRI is a Smart Investment
Choosing the right MRI solution is a critical investment for any veterinary practice. With MIRA, Hallmarq offers a cutting-edge, cost-effective alternative that avoids the risks of second-hand equipment while maximizing long-term value. By considering the total cost of ownership, clinics can make an informed decision that enhances diagnostic capabilities, improves patient outcomes, and ensures financial sustainability.
Investing in the right technology today sets the foundation for a more successful and efficient practice tomorrow.
For more information on how Hallmarq’s small animal imaging solutions can benefit your practice, visit our Small Animal MRI Solutions page. Alternatively …
*photo for illustrative purposes only.
