Starting your own mobile ultrasound business may not be as far-fetched as it seems…
In fact, mobile ultrasound businesses are becoming more and more popular.
That’s because mobile ultrasounds are convenient for both soon-to-be-moms and doctors.
For doctors, they can bill their patients directly, while outsourcing their ultrasound services to outside businesses.
And soon-to-be-moms can receive their ultrasound services from the comfort of their own home.
Win win!
So, if you’re wondering how to start a mobile ultrasound business, we have you covered.
With the help of a seasoned professional — Jenny Kron of Hey, Baby! — we’ll give you the answers you need before taking your ultrasound business on the road.
Got a specific question? Feel free to jump ahead! 👇
- Do you need a certification to run a mobile ultrasound business?
- What equipment do you need? And how much does it cost?
- What startup costs do I need to be aware of?
- What to know before starting a mobile ultrasound business?
How to Start a Mobile Ultrasound Business, According to a Pro
Jenny Kron is a Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer, and the sole owner/operator of Hey, Baby! — a mobile 4D ultrasound business based in Rochester, New York.
(Be sure to check her out on TikTok!)
Jenny loves getting to perform baby ultrasounds full time, bringing her high quality, portable ultrasound machine directly to clients’ homes.
We asked her a few questions to get her insight on how to start your own mobile ultrasound business, and here’s what she had to say.
Are there any certifications needed to run a mobile ultrasound business?
Short answer: Yes.
Long answer: It can be tricky, depending on where you live.
“While in most states you are not required to have the Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS) certification to perform elective ultrasounds,” Jenny made it clear that it “truly is best to be certified.”
“The reason for this is because having the base knowledge of ultrasound will help you to be much more successful in doing the actual ultrasounds.”
Jenny also told us: If you’re interested in offering diagnostic ultrasounds, you will need to be RDMS certified.
How much does a RDMS certification cost?
The RDMS certification requires passing the Sonography Principles & Instrumentation Exam, which costs $225.
What equipment do you need to start a mobile ultrasound business? And how much does it cost?
When it comes to starting a mobile ultrasound business, there are several tools to keep in mind, which we’ll get to in the next section.
But the biggest equipment expense will be the ultrasound machine itself.
“I personally feel that the Chison Sonobook 9 is the best portable ultrasound machine to use for your mobile ultrasound business,” Jenny said.
The Chison Sonobook 9 is a smart ultrasound system that comes with a 15” HD LED monitor that’s rotatable, lightweight, and slim.
What about cost?
This specific machine is “roughly $29,000 USD,” Jenny said.
But mobile ultrasound machines can range anywhere from $5,000 on the low end all the way up to $50,000.
Jenny also mentioned that folks can order a machine directly through her.
“I work directly with the manufacturer to make sure you get exactly what [the business owner] needs.”
Pro Tip: Physicians will want ultrasound results quickly, so while you’re shopping around, double check the equipment is capable of sending imagery to physicians and radiologists in a timely manner.
What Kind of Money-Maker Are You?
Let’s talk money, honey! Spend it, save it, hustle for it.
Take the QuizWhat other startup costs do I need to be aware of for a mobile ultrasound business?
“Startup costs also include your insurances, website fees, and advertising,” Jenny said.
Plus, there are other items to consider as well, such as “gloves, ultrasound gel, and medical grade disinfectant wipes.”
Pro Tip: While sonographer insurance ranges from $29/month to $100/month, you can find a great breakdown on sonographer insurance costs that Insuranks put together.
If you could give someone advice before starting a mobile ultrasound business, what would it be?
“Determine if it’s legal in your state, and know what kind of competition you have in your area,” Jenny said.
“Many places have elective ultrasounds available, but not every place has a mobile option.”
Of course, before you jump into your own mobile ultrasound business, “See if your niche of being mobile will be unique in your area.”
Bonus Question: What’s one thing you know now that you wish you knew before you started?
“I wish I knew more about where to buy my machine from,” Jenny said.
“There are so many scams out there, and there’s a big risk associated with buying a used machine.
Buyer beware and do your research on the company you are buying from!”
She also recommended that business owners “take advantage of social media exposure.
“Be sure to post all the time. Take advantage of the free advertising!”
A mobile ultrasound business needs a mobile scheduling app, right? Don’t worry, Schedulicity has you covered!
With appointment scheduling, marketing tools, and payment processing, you have everything you need to run your mobile ultrasound business — all in one place!