What new gadgets and technologies are out there for chiropractors? Filmless systems are convenient and save time, space, and money. Chiropractic Products asked Fred Fischer, president of AllPro Imaging, Hicksville, NY, about this new technology for your practice.

How can chiropractors successfully implement AllPro products in their practices? What are some costs involved?
Radiographs have long been an essential tool of chiropractors in the visualization and diagnosis of subluxations of the spine. Just as x-ray machines have improved over the years allowing less radiation to patients, so too has the way that x-ray images are processed and saved. Film-based systems have advanced from slow, manual “dip and dunk” to processors that produce a readable film in 2 minutes or less. Now, filmless systems are available that produce images in less than 1 minute and allow viewing, storage, retrieval, and duplication at the press of a button. If doctors already have a darkroom, the All-Pro processor can be installed for about $5,000. Our digital computed radiography system costs about $40,000.

How can this help increase their patient bases?
Let’s face it—patients hate to wait. A film processor allows doctors to diagnose and discuss a treatment plan in mere minutes. Viewing a digital x-ray image on a screen where it can be magnified and changed so that the condition is visible is impressive.

What are some customer service features for DCs?
With a digital system, the latent image is recorded on a reusable phosphor storage plate. The plate is scanned, and the x-ray is stored and viewed using a computer. There is literally no film, chemical disposal, odor, film storage, processor, or maintenance. These costs can add up to more than $10 per film. Doctors who takes eight films per day can amortize the cost of our digital system in just 2 years.

What is the history of AllPro Imaging?
A division of Air Techniques Inc, All-Pro Imaging was founded in 1985. All-Pro is a major manufacturer of film processors and digital imaging systems used by chiropractors and other medical professionals. All of our products are designed and manufactured in the 200,000 sq ft facility in Hicksville, NY.

Tell us about AllPro's commitment to the chiropractic profession. Digital computed radiography systems have not been adopted by private offices because of cost, typically $150,000 or more. Our goal was to design and manufacture a system priced within the reach of DCs.

What do you see for the future of chiropractic?
It is widely acknowledged that chiropractors are able to provide relief from pain that orthopedists cannot, and this is done nonsurgically. Beyond that, many people seek help and wellness advice from alternative medical sources. Both of these bode well for the future of chiropractic.