From the June 2022 issue of HealthCare Business News magazine


Additionally, the interiors of tractor-trailers are a far cry from the cold and sterile, clinical environments that these units once occupied. Instead, many mobile trucking companies are creating warm and inviting areas that make the patient feel more comfortable. Some, for instance, have added decor like skylights, wall murals and interior graphics to calm people who step onto the truck. This enables patients to stay still and focus, which in turn makes scanning faster, easier and more accurate. It also can help reduce repeat scans due to movement.

“We’re starting to see some manufacturers building these trailers that are phenomenal,” said Doyle. “It doesn't feel like you're going out in a trailer. It feels like you're going into a suite.”


What providers should be looking for
Sodomire says that before 2008, the industry produced five to six hundred new mobile imaging trailers a year. The Great Recession caused this number to drop significantly along with the number of buyers of new trailers. But in the last few years, the market has been rebounding and the demand is going up for mobile imaging trailers with state-of-the-art imaging technology. As a result, companies like TDC Trailer are building more imaging trailers. “In 2020, in total, only about 100 new trailers were built,” said Sodomire. “That was probably the first year since 2008 that new trailers were even actually built. And then in 2021, I think there were about 120 total trailers built, and I think this year there will probably be 150 new trailers built.”

While the introduction of new trailers with advanced scanners is a promising sign, providers also must pull their weight to ensure that patients receive top-notch care when entering these units. Doyle says the first step is to choose a mobile imaging partner they trust, that understands the specific needs of their local patient population and will abide by established guidelines in their area. “Many factors go into this, including patient care and revenue. You really need someone who is looking to be a true partner. We are still an investment.”

Smith adds that such a mobile manufacturing partner should be experienced and OEM-approved. “You want a company that has 20 plus years of experience manufacturing mobile medical units. If you’re going to go with a certain manufacturer of a mobile medical trailer, you want someone who's been certified to install the specific equipment by the OEM,” he said. “Look at features that make it easier to set up and operate the unit. Talk to customers who are actually using this particular model in the field and learn what their experience has been.”

June 2022 Magazine

Read more stories from the June 2022 issue

More Magazine Features

Mobile Imaging Homepage