How to Cost-Effectively Add Imaging to Your Veterinary Practice

As animal owners’ expectations increase related to veterinary care options, care has become more sophisticated, making imaging a “must-have” in many communities. Whether you're running a bustling urban animal hospital or a small-town mobile clinic, the ability to quickly diagnose conditions through imaging directly impacts your ability to deliver efficient, accurate care.

Yet for many practice owners, adding imaging equipment—whether digital X-ray, ultrasound, or CT—raises a significant financial question: How can we justify the cost? Let’s take a closer look at why imaging matters, what’s driving adoption, and how practices can make strategic, cost-effective investments in diagnostic imaging technology.

a woman practicing veterinary medicine on a dog

Why Imaging Is No Longer Optional

Today’s pet owners are increasingly discerning about their pets’ health care, and increasingly willing to pay for advanced treatments. With pet insurance gaining traction—with the global pet insurance market valued at USD 18.32 billion dollars in 2024—and spending on veterinary services on the rise, demand for faster, more definitive diagnostics is growing.Imaging systems provide critical insight into conditions ranging from fractures and tumors to gastrointestinal obstructions and cardiac issues. They also:

  • Reduce diagnostic uncertainty, leading to quicker treatment decisions
  • Help retain cases in-house, rather than referring clients to specialty clinics or larger animal hospitals
  • Gain insight into what’s happening with their pet, resulting in peace of mind for pet owners

For veterinarians striving to offer gold-standard care, imaging is a central part of the equation.

Market Forces Behind the Push for Imaging

Recent data highlights how veterinary equipment investment is gaining ground:

  • The global veterinary equipment and disposables market size was estimated at USD 3,496.3 million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 5,013.8 million by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 6.3% from 2025 to 2030.
  • In the U.S., this segment is on track to hit $914.95 million this year, growing steadily into the next decade.

Several trends are propelling this growth:

  • Rising Pet Ownership: More pets mean more demand for diagnostics. Approximately 66% of U.S. households owned a pet in 2023–2024, up from 56% in 1988
  • Technological Advancements: Digital imaging systems are becoming smaller and more affordable
  • Pet Insurance Uptake: With more clients insured, practices are better positioned to offer premium diagnostics and receive compensation for it.
  • Practice Innovation: Mobile services, telemedicine, and AI-enhanced diagnostics are pushing veterinary care into new terrain, where imaging plays a crucial role

Still, budget constraints remain a major consideration for practice owners, especially those expanding or starting up.

InterMed Can Help You Expand Imaging Access, Affordably

InterMed understands the financial and clinical realities veterinary practices face. That’s why we offer cost-effective imaging solutions that meet a range of needs, whether you’re just getting started or looking to upgrade.

Our equipment specialists can help you:

  • Source high-quality new or refurbished imaging systems: Choose from a curated selection of digital X-ray, ultrasound, and other diagnostic tools, backed by our commitment to service equipment after purchase
  • Compare features and pricing across brands and models: Make confident decisions with expert insights on capabilities, compatibility, and value for your practice needs
  • Explore flexible financing options tailored to your practice: Access lease options, and payment plans that ease upfront costs
  • Ensure smooth delivery, installation, and ongoing support: Our team handles end-to-end logistics from timely delivery and setup to post-installation service. And with InterMed’s nationwide field service network, your practice is supported long after installation with expert maintenance, troubleshooting, and rapid on-site repairs to keep imaging systems performing at their best

Adding imaging to your veterinary practice can be an investment that pays dividends. With the right partner, you can bring this essential capability into your practice—quickly, affordably, and confidently.

Learn more about InterMed’s equipment sales and field service and how we can help your veterinary practice grow. Call or email us at (800) 768-8622 or sales@intermed1.com.