Abstract
Price Influences Customer Acceptance of New Diagnostic Ultrasound Imaging Technology
Reimbursement policies are a major driver for diagnostic ultrasound technology up-take. Since
Europe is highly fragmented, the policies for ultrasound scans vary from country to country. This is
quite unlike the trend in North America, where there is better monitoring by federal agencies such
as Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In the United Kingdom, big governmental set-ups mostly handle
the high-end applications while private healthcare facilities encourage medium or low-end
applications. Therefore, competitively priced high-end ultrasound systems are likely to prove more
successful in the United Kingdom. In the long run, companies will have to pay closer attention to
the pricing of their final product to sustain revenues in the European market.
This Technical Insights research service examines R&D, product development, and regulatory
aspects specifically related to the applications of diagnostic ultrasound imaging. It includes
modality overview, research trends, stimulants and impediments to technology evolution. The analysis
is divided into four segments: 2D, 3D, 4D, and Doppler ultrasound technologies.
Safety and Ergonomic Concerns Drive Ultrasound Modality
Safety concerns have always been an important aspect for technology development in diagnostic
imaging modalities. For instance, high levels of work-related injuries to sonographers have prompted
companies in this sector to come out with novel and improved design aspects in developing ergonomic
and user-friendly ultrasound devices.
"Ergonomic concerns and safe utilisation of ultrasound modality are making their impact in
Europe, as well," says the analyst of this research. "Some companies have even approached
the problem through novel integration of Bluetooth wireless technology into the devices, enabling
stress- and injury-free work environment."
Training and Specialised Skills Needed for Diagnostic Ultrasound Imaging
Europe does not have a uniform training requirement for medical ultrasound as a vocational
choice. Despite efforts by a few regulators and professional societies across Europe, appropriate
training needs and assessments remain a challenge. Moreover, regulatory norms and stringency vary
considerably among countries in Europe. Consequently, these add to staffing shortages. With
increasing demand for faster, economical ultrasound exams, the short supply of skilled professionals
is placing growing pressure on clinicians.
"Ultrasound specialists agree that enhanced imaging capabilities such as 3D or 4D require a
different set of reading and interpreting skills as opposed to other modalities, with a possibly
steep learning curve," notes the analyst. "Additionally, a comprehensive and standard
terminology needs to be developed, which would help physicians describe what they see and
communicate the same to patients." | 
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