Physician practices can expand the services available to their patients and increase revenue by investing in portable ultrasound machines, according to a Physicians Practice article by Audrey "Christie" McLaughlin, creator of the sales and consulting group Physicians Practice Expert.
A portable ultrasound allows primary care physicians to perform numerous scans, including abdominal aorta scanning, gallstone checks, thyroid scanning and deep vein thrombosis, according to Ms. McLaughlin. Overall, practices with ultrasounds offer patients more convenient care with the availability of more procedures and on-the-spot diagnoses.
Additionally, Ms. McLaughlin wrote it's easy to learn to perform ultrasound scans. For an average cost of $900, physicians can purchase study materials, in-depth instructional DVD series or online learning platforms.
As far as finances are concerned, obtaining an ultrasound machine requires capital investment. Physicians can opt for a cash payment, financing, leasing or renting, according to Ms. McLaughlin. However, she wrote the benefits for the patients and the practice's finances make the investment worthwhile. Reimbursements for these scans can range from around $100 to roughly $250, although payments vary depending on the practice location and specific contracts.
Overall, Ms. McLaughlin has classified ultrasound as something physicians must consider to expand their practices.
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