Expanding Imaging Services? How to Plan for Multi-Modality Growth

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We’ve helped hundreds of facilities successfully scale from single-modality to full-service diagnostic imaging. Whether you're starting with an X-ray suite or looking to add your second or third imaging system, smart planning makes all the difference.

As imaging centers grow, many face the same critical question: How do you expand your services to include new modalities like MRI, CT, or X-ray without disrupting your operations or blowing your budget? This is what we do! We’re here to help! 

Here’s what to consider as you expand.

1. Define Your Clinical Goals and Patient Volume 

Start by asking: Why are we expanding?

  • Are you trying to bring imaging in-house for better workflow?
  • Do you want to increase referrals or retain more billable procedures?
  • Are you responding to growing demand in specific areas, like orthopedics or neurology?

Understanding your goals helps guide which modalities to add, and in what order.

PrizMED Tip: Map out your top 5 procedure types by volume and reimbursement. This will help prioritize which equipment will deliver the best return fastest.

2. Plan for Workflow Across Modalities 

Planning for smart patient flow

Multi-modality environments need a thoughtful layout. CT and MRI scanners have different prep times, room requirements, and patient handling needs than X-ray or ultrasound. Planning for smart patient flow and minimal bottlenecks is critical.

Think through:

  • Do you need private prep rooms or changing areas?
  • Will staff be cross-trained across modalities?
  • How will patients move between waiting, scanning, and recovery areas?

PrizMED Tip: Create zones for high-volume vs. high-complexity studies. This helps your techs focus and maximizes throughput.

3. Check Infrastructure and Site Readiness 

Adding new modalities isn’t just a matter of plugging in more equipment. CT and MRI, for example, have specific power, shielding, and HVAC requirements.

For each new system, assess:

  • Electrical load and voltage
  • Cooling and HVAC
  • Data cabling and PACS connectivity
  • Room size, wall structure, and floor load capacity

PrizMED Tip: Ask your vendor to conduct a site readiness assessment before purchase. We often uncover hidden issues that can delay installation or increase costs.

4. Build in Flexibility for Future Expansion 

product schematic

Don’t just plan for today - design your imaging department with future growth in mind.

Smart moves include:

  • Using modular shielding for easy room repurposing
  • Running extra conduit and data lines during your initial buildout
  • Leaving buffer space for another modality or upgraded system

PrizMED Tip: If you expect to add an MRI in 2 - 3 years, make space and infrastructure upgrades now. It’s far cheaper than retrofitting later.

5. Align Your Equipment Choices with Reimbursement 

project ROI

Some systems offer higher billable potential than others. While MRI and CT may come with higher initial costs, they can pay off quickly when utilization is high. Ultrasound and X-ray have lower barriers to entry and can deliver steady returns over time.

Evaluate:

  • Reimbursement rates for your top CPT codes
  • Payor mix and pre-authorization policies
  • Volume trends in your specialty or region

PrizMED Tip: We help clients project ROI for each modality so you can choose equipment that fits both your clinical needs and your business model.

We're Here to Help! 

Expanding into multi-modality imaging is an exciting milestone, but it’s also a complex one. With the right planning, you can avoid costly missteps and build an imaging department that supports your long-term goals.

At PrizMED, we work with growing practices every day. Whether you’re adding your first CT or expanding into MRI, we’ll help you plan, price, and prepare with confidence.

Let’s build something that grows with you. Contact us today! 

 

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