Choosing a PACS isn’t just a technology decision—it’s a financial one. And while many vendors make the upfront price look appealing, the real costs often show up later, buried in fine print or hidden in the next invoice.
At Radsource, we believe in clear, predictable pricing—because you deserve to know what you’re paying for. If you’re evaluating PACS options or wondering if your current system is costing more than expected, here’s what to look for—and what to question.
1. What’s Included in the Quote?
Start here. Many PACS vendors provide stripped-down quotes that don’t reflect the full cost of ownership.
Ask:
- Does the quote include implementation, training, and data migration?
- Is support included, or only available through a paid tier?
- Are future upgrades part of the package, or an additional fee?
Red Flag: If you can’t easily find what’s not included, assume it’s an extra charge.
2. Are Support, Storage, and Upgrades Built In—or Billed Separately?
Support is essential—but not all vendors handle it the same way. Some offer only basic help unless you pay for premium tiers. Others bill separately for things like routine system updates or exceeding storage thresholds.
What to ask:
- Is daytime support included?
- What happens if you need help after hours?
- Are upgrades and maintenance covered, or do they require additional contracts?
At Radsource, our clients receive expert, U.S.-based support during business hours, with after-hours help available if requested. Storage and upgrades are included in standard pricing—so you can plan your budget with confidence.
3. How Does the Vendor Handle Integrations?
It’s common to assume that your PACS will talk to your EMR, RIS, or billing system out of the box—but that’s not always the case.
Ask:
- Are integrations included in the base price?
- What will HL7, FHIR, or API-based connections cost?
- Can your current IT team support these, or will the vendor charge for configuration?
Tip: A lack of integration often means more manual work, slower workflows, and higher staffing costs.
4. Is Pricing Predictable Over Time?
While cost-of-living adjustments are a reality across most industries, pricing should still be fair and clearly communicated.
Ask:
- Does the vendor provide a pricing roadmap or guidelines for future increases?
- Are there clear terms around renewals or license changes?
- How are COL-based adjustments handled—if they occur?
At Radsource, we aim to give our clients predictability. When pricing changes are necessary, we communicate proactively and make sure you understand exactly what’s changing—and why.
5. What Do Other Clients Say About Pricing Transparency?
Sometimes the best insights come from others who’ve already been down the road. Look for client testimonials or case studies that reference pricing clarity, billing experiences, or unexpected charges—or lack thereof.
Bonus Tip: Ask vendors directly for customer references who can speak to their billing and support experience.
Bottom Line: Don’t Let Hidden Costs Erode Your Budget
A lower quote isn’t always the better deal. When it comes to PACS, it’s not just about how much you pay—it’s what you get and what you can count on over time.
At Radsource, ProtonPACS was designed with bundled, transparent pricing and no surprises—because we believe your imaging team should focus on patients, not invoices.
