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When the time comes to purchase a new EKG machine for your office or medical center, it may help to consult with those who use it the most. Only they will know which features and functions are missing from your current machine, and help you make the right purchasing decision.

Here are some key features to consider for your next EKG machine:

What size paper does the machine use?

Some EKG machines use 60 mm strips and others use EKG paper in half-sized sheets.
Using even smaller paper, such as the 3×4x1 format, may save money in the long run.
It is possible to buy a machine that uses 8.5 x 11” paper. While the paper costs may be higher, it is easier to handle and file these printouts.

Does the machine come equipped with a keyboard for typing in patient information?
When patient demographics appear on their printout, it gives a more professional-looking EKG reading.
However, in some cases it takes too much time for a nurse to personalize the reading for each patient, so this may be a question for your nursing staff.

Does the EKG machine have a screen?
Most medical professionals prefer to have a screen, since it verifies that all leads are working properly prior to testing. It also ensures that the baseline is stable before testing begins.
Making sure that all twelve leads are visible at once, in real time, eliminates the need to switch screens in order to view them.

Does the machine connect to a computer?
If so, make sure the output is based on a system architecture that is compatible with your EMR and EKG management system.
Be careful – Sometimes EKG machines are made to integrate only with the management software made by that manufacturer.

A PC-based EKG machine will allow you to integrate other diagnostic features, to provide a full picture of a patient’s overall health. These user-friendly machines will also allow you to create a searchable database of all EKGs performed, connect to a patient’s electronic medical record, and email results right from your PC.

Many physicians are too busy to spend a lot of time looking for the best buys on medical equipment for their offices. One key piece of equipment is an EKG machine. If your existing machine is on its last legs, you may be tempted to work with a local rep to replace it, but is that really the best deal you can get?

Most reps that specialize in basic medical supplies do not have enough expertise with high-tech equipment like EKG machines to help you make the smartest choice, nor do they have access to the best deals available. Most reps get incentives to promote certain machines, but the one they are pushing you to buy may not be the right one for your practice.

While your medical supplier may feel entitled to your business, when it’s time to purchase an EKG machine, it makes sense to explore other purchasing options.

Before deciding on a new EKG machine for your office, it pays to shop around. Take the time to shop the internet to find the best price, and you may be surprised at the level of service you will get online. Most EKG manufacturers offer authorized service representatives, and are likely to have one in your area. Some of these manufacturers and online stores will even offer to train your office staff on the new machine. In addition, the manufacturer usually handles all warranty and service issues anyway, so you can work directly with them on any repairs.

When choosing a new EKG machine, make sure you look for one that meets all your needs. It may make sense to consult with your nursing staff prior to choosing a machine since they will be more familiar with its operation and maintenance. They will also know which features to look for, such as paper size, keyboard functionality, screen size, and computer compatibility, and may even know which make and model would work best for your office.