Buying an ultrasound system? Compare what happens when it goes down

List the equipment each plan actually covers

Put the console, probes and any workstation on separate lines. Identify the console by serial number and each probe by model and serial number when available. For used or refurbished equipment, ask when coverage starts, whether the unit needs an inspection first and how known defects are treated. Ask the vendor to point to the contract language covering accidental damage, labor, travel and freight for each item.

GE HealthCare describes probe coverage as part of some U.S. ultrasound service offerings. Its U.S. on-demand quotation terms also give examples of exclusions such as pre-existing defects and transportation-related damage. Ask which terms apply to the quote in front of you.

Sources: GE ultrasound service and support · GE U.S. on-demand terms, March 2026

Ask which clock starts when you call

Record four milestones for each scenario: the vendor acknowledges the ticket, a technician starts work, a compatible temporary replacement arrives if available, and your team can resume the affected exams. A response-time target typically describes an early milestone. Ask which event starts the clock, which hours count and whether the stated target applies to your site. Philips says its U.S. RightFit agreements can vary in coverage hours, parts delivery speed and uptime terms. Use the written terms for the offered plan.

Sources: Philips RightFit maintenance service agreements

Check what a loaner would let you do

Ask whether the provider offers a loaner for the exact probe model, who pays shipping and what happens when stock is unavailable. If the provider proposes a substitute, ask for written compatibility with the installed console and software, including the modes your team needs. GE’s U.S. Service Shop says loaners depend on inventory and are unavailable for some probe models. If the failed item is the console, ask separately whether the plan provides a temporary system and who configures it for your workflow.

Sources: GE U.S. Service Shop loaner information

Compare both quotes over the same period

Use the same contract term and expected workload. Record the quoted fee, deductibles and excluded expenses, then ask your team how many appointments each failure would disrupt under the vendor’s written scenario. Where the vendor gives no timing commitment, leave that field blank and plan around the backup equipment you actually have. The quote that best fits your site should explain what happens to the equipment you depend on and give your team a clear person to call when it fails.