Because the Eurozone economic slowdown has made it difficult for hospitals to buy new imaging equipment, healthcare facilities across the continent are showing greater interest in refurbished systems.
That conclusion comes from a new study by market research firm Frost & Sullivan, which found refurbished technology is now preferred across most imaging departments, including nuclear medicine, mammography, and minimally invasive surgeries in private hospitals.
The market, however, presents its challenges. For instance, the report noted, laws in some nations, such as France, require that reimbursement is reduced by half, if the equipment is older than five years. This rule forces some hospitals to purchase new equipment.
Moreover, regulations in certain countries, such as Romania and Bulgaria, restrict hospitals from buying old equipment using state-funded loans. Because almost all public hospitals are covered by the state, they opt for new systems over refurbished models.
