New Regs Impact Operating Capital for Diagnostic Centers
MIS Urges Caution when Choosing Business Partners

Choosing business partners wisely has always been sage advice, but practicing such due diligence is increasingly important for outpatient diagnostic facilities in light of newly implemented regulations that will cut operating capital in this segment.

While the DRA Congressional Act, implemented on January 1, 2007, will undoubtedly impact the diagnostic industry’s bottom line in 2007 and beyond, there are ways facilities can protect themselves. One of the most proactive approaches, according to Woodstock, GA-based Medical Imaging Solutions Group Inc. (MIS), is to partner with businesses that offer unique solutions that can help counter the reimbursement cuts stemming from the new regulations. Since its inception in 1998, MIS has been doing just that – providing customized solutions for its clients and establishing a true customer-centric partnership.

Diagnostic Centers will have to be more prudent than ever in choosing a proven professional partner. This partner must have the best interest of the customer in mind, which will be reflected by its value- and quality-driven customized service and capital equipment offerings, according to MIS president Arnold Bates.

“This relationship should be one that will last for years, foster trust and respect, and benefit both parties,” he noted, adding that it’s MIS’ mission to provide such a relationship with its customers. “This is the time to review your business strategy and find efficiencies, which is critical for revenue retention.”

MIS provides cost-effective, quality solutions for MRI and CT imaging needs throughout the Unites States and international markets. Specifically, the company buys, sells, refurbishes, installs and maintains previously owned medical equipment, and is equipped with the tools and extensive sales and engineering expertise to operate both efficiently and effectively – and ultimately help its customers do the same. MIS, which guarantees that every piece of equipment sold meets original equipment manufacturer specifications, also provides de-installation services and complete turnkey solutions, such as site planning and construction oversight. The company offers a host of specialized products and services to help customers maximize and retain their revenues, including unique support programs, quality renewed scanners guaranteed to perform to OEM standards, and equipment upgrades capable of providing more rapid throughput and in-depth exams.

“The goal,” according to Arnold, “is to provide solutions that are uniquely tailored and customized for each client. It’s that commitment to excellence and individualized service that has made MIS a trusted, respected and reputable service partner.” He added that the company has built its success on market leadership, financial strength, quality and personalized solutions, and its strong affiliation with other proven business partners.

Knowledge is Power
MIS works with customers to identify proactive solutions for their business by providing information flow and process analyses aimed at increasing revenues; exploring clients’ abilities to implement technological upgrades that add value to their existing equipment, as opposed to requiring a major cash outlay for the latest technology; and customizing a service plan to find the best balance between required service and equipment maintenance.

“We invite you to visit Medical Imaging Solutions Group to verify our technical and financial capabilities firsthand,” said Arnold. A visit to MIS’ Woodstock, GA, facilities – which includes the newly custom-built corporate headquarters, refurbishing facility of more than 45,000 square feet, a mobile storage yard and fleet of state-of-the-art mobile units for interim leasing purposes – will make apparent MIS’ heavy investment in information technology, unique warehousing and staging areas, effective internal processes and infrastructure, and unsurpassed commitment to its clients.

As Arnold pointed out, now is the time for those in the diagnostic imaging segment to evaluate how technology and business partnerships can help off-set costs and drive long-term success.

Is cost or debt restructuring necessary to maximize operating efficiencies? Could your company benefit from technological upgrades that will allow you to perform more reimbursable procedures and add revenue? Which technologies will offer the greatest value?

“These are just some of the key questions companies should be asking and resolving as they move forward,” noted Arnold, reaffirming the need for diagnostic centers to practice due diligence in choosing reputable, dedicated service and equipment providers that can help them maximize their operating efficiencies. “It’s important to remember that all companies are not created equal. MIS has the knowledge, expertise and commitment to assist customers with their unique needs and help them identify the technology that will provide the greatest benefit and value – both now and into the future.”