Pricing a PAC System can be complicated, so we’ve compiled a list with five key tips to use when comparing the options. These tips will help you understand, compare, and contrast bids and hopefully lead to the best fit for your practice.
1. Standardize the pricing format
It’s a good idea to construct a spreadsheet that shows each vendor’s pricing data on a single worksheet for a side-by-side comparison. In developing the standardized pricing form, create separate sections for hardware, software, and options and request pricing to the line-item level. Fill the sheet in as you receive quotes so you can see how they stack-up side by side.
2. Standardize features comparison
As with the pricing, you should create a spreadsheet to list each of the features from the different vendors. With making a check-box style of worksheet it will make it easier to see what you are getting for your money. Taking the time to create this will show you who has the features you need and who is coming up short.
3. Analyze per-unit costs
Another way to compare your options is to use a per-unit cost basis. Take the total cost of each system and then divide that by an estimated number of studies for a fixed period of time. Looking at the entire life span to determine a per study cost over the course of two or three years can help put the costs in perspective.
4. Determine how to weight the pricing model
As covered above, the way you classify the system can have real tax and financial ramifications. Going with a fixed cost system where you own the hardware can allow for write offs while fee-per-study vendors will only allow you to classify it as a monthly expense. Make sure the accounting method you are going to use is factored into the long- term price.
5. Compare services and training
Research has found that one of the biggest sources of frustration after a PACS purchase is the lack of training and education about the system. The support and training you receive is critical to the launch and continued success of your PACS. This is relevant both at the initial launch and with ongoing support. Both of those line items should be addressed and weighted as you make a decision. Items such as the level of onsite project management, length of time the project manager will be engaged, the number of clients he/she is supporting simultaneously, and the budgeted number of project management hours will directly affect how much you get from your PAC System.
