Home » Is a DR panel upgrade worth the investment?
Ever thought about investing in a digital radiography (DR) panel?
A DR panel upgrade for your clinic can greatly enhance efficiency and diagnostic accuracy. However, understanding when this upgrade becomes financially viable is essential.
This article explores the potential return on investment (ROI) of a DR panel, provides sample calculations, and explains how the Australian Tax Office (ATO) incentives can further benefit your clinic.
Sam, Medic Cloud Managing Director
Initial investment: The cost of a DR panel
The cost of a DR panel typically falls between $25,000 and $30,000 Australian dollars. While this may seem like a significant upfront expense, the benefits of faster imaging, improved workflow, and enhanced image quality can result in considerable long-term savings and increased revenue. You may wish to read our blog about the key factors to consider beyond the initial price.
Revenue per patient x-ray
Most clinics charge between $100 and $150 for each patient x-ray. For simplicity, this calculation assumes an average fee of $125 per x-ray.
How to calculate ROI on a DR panel upgrade
To determine how quickly your clinic can recover the initial investment, consider the number of x-rays performed weekly and annually. The table below outlines potential ROI timelines based on different usage scenarios:
| X-Rays Per Week | X-Rays Per Year | Revenue Per Year (@ $125/X-Ray) | ROI Timeline (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 520 | $65,000 | 8-12 months |
| 20 | 1,040 | $130,000 | 4-6 months |
| 30 | 1,560 | $195,000 | 2-4 months |
Time savings with DR panels
Switching from a computed radiography (CR) system to a DR panel doesn’t just improve financial outcomes; it also significantly reduces imaging time:
| X-Rays Per Week | Time Saved Per Week (hours) | Time Saved Per Year (hours) |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | 1.5 – 2.5 | 78 – 130 |
| 20 | 3 – 5 | 156 – 260 |
| 30 | 4.5 – 7.5 | 234 – 390 |
- CR systems: Require 5-10 minutes per x-ray, including processing and retakes.
- DR panels: Reduce this to just 1-2 minutes, offering instant image availability and fewer retakes.
This time-saving advantage boosts productivity and improves patient care, especially for animals under anesthetic. You may want to read our blog regarding key factors beyond the initial price.
Optimising workflow for faster ROI
Upgrading to a DR panel brings significant workflow improvements, such as:
- Faster processing times: DR panels process images in under six seconds, saving valuable time during procedures, especially when animals are anesthetised.
- Fewer retakes: High-resolution imaging reduces the need for repeat scans, enhancing patient care and clinic efficiency.
- Streamlined operations: Faster diagnostics allow your clinic to serve more patients daily, directly increasing revenue potential.
Future-proofing your investment
A DR panel isn’t just a short-term upgrade; it’s a long-term investment in your clinic’s success. Medic Cloud’s DR systems are designed with scalability in mind:
- Integration with portable units: DR panels can integrate with DRGEM portable x-ray units, offering greater flexibility as your clinic grows.
- Compatibility with larger systems: If your clinic expands or specialises, DR panels are compatible with advanced systems like DRGEM’s VXR series, ensuring a seamless transition and protecting your initial investment.
This scalability allows you to spread costs while maintaining a cohesive imaging ecosystem.
Our DR panel technology
Maximising benefits with ATO incentives
The Australian Tax Office (ATO) occasionally provides incentives for businesses investing in new equipment, such as:
- Instant asset write-off: Eligible businesses can immediately deduct the cost of the DR panel.
- Depreciation benefits: Spread the cost over time, improving cash flow management.
Consult your accountant or financial advisor to explore these opportunities and maximise the benefits for your clinic.
Conclusion
A DR panel upgrade offers significant returns for veterinary clinics by boosting efficiency, improving patient care, and increasing revenue. With an initial cost of $25,000 to $30,000, your clinic can achieve ROI within 8-24 months by performing as few as 10 x-rays per week. When combined with ATO incentives and a scalable investment strategy, this upgrade ensures long-term financial sustainability and operational success.
Additionally, the time saved with a DR panel enhances workflow efficiency and improves outcomes for both patients and staff.
Contact Medic Cloud today to discover how our DR systems can revolutionise your clinic’s imaging capabilities and set you on a path to greater success.
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