Helium is the lifeblood of MRI systems, essential for maintaining the superconducting magnet field needed for imaging. However, recurring helium shortages have led to unexpected costs, downtime, and operational disruptions for MRI centers worldwide. TMC’s Helium Zer0 Program offers a revolutionary approach to mitigate these risks, ensuring consistent MRI performance without reliance on unpredictable helium markets.
The Impact of Helium Shortages on MRI Centers
Helium shortages have historically caused:
- Increased operational costs due to price volatility.
- Unscheduled downtime leading to lost revenue and patient care delays.
- Supply chain disruptions, affecting maintenance and service schedules.
Over the past 20 years, the industry has faced at least five helium shortages, each resulting in significant financial and operational strain on MRI centers. The most recent crisis was one of the worst in history, highlighting the need for a sustainable, long-term solution.
Why the Next Helium Shortage is Inevitable
History has shown that helium shortages are cyclical. Various factors—including global supply chain disruptions, geopolitical issues, and unexpected facility shutdowns—can rapidly affect helium availability. The medical imaging industry must take proactive steps to prepare for the next shortage before it happens.
Introducing TMC’s Helium Zer0 Program
The Helium Zer0 Program was developed during a previous helium shortage to help MRI centers eliminate helium-related risks. Rather than leaving hospitals and imaging centers vulnerable to market fluctuations, TMC assumes responsibility for helium loss prevention through advanced system management.
How the Helium Zer0 Program Works
TMC’s Helium Zer0 Program ensures MRI centers can confidently predict costs and uptime by:
- Eliminating Helium Loss – Through proactive system monitoring, we prevent unnecessary helium depletion.
- Assuming Maintenance Responsibilities – TMC engineers take full control of helium and cooling system maintenance, reducing administrative burden.
- Providing Cost Stability – Customers in the program experience predictable expenses, free from market volatility.
Real-World Success: Customer Testimonial
One of TMC’s long-term clients has benefited from the Helium Zer0 Program for over five years. According to Sean, a key partner:
“We have a customer who has been in the Helium Zer0 Program for five years. Their annualized spend has remained stable, and they haven’t needed a helium fill during this time, thanks to real-time proactive monitoring and expert TMC engineers managing their entire system.”
The Benefits of Enrolling in the Helium Zer0 Program
MRI centers that join the Helium Zer0 Program experience:
- Zero Helium Loss – Ensuring consistent machine performance without additional helium costs.
- Reduced Downtime – Minimized disruptions to patient care and revenue.
- Stable Operational Costs – Predictable expenses without unexpected helium price spikes.
- Expert Engineering Support – Dedicated TMC professionals managing system health.
Take Control of Your MRI’s Future
The helium shortage crisis will continue to affect the medical imaging industry. Rather than reacting to the next supply disruption, MRI centers can proactively secure their operations with the Helium Zer0 Program. Don’t leave your MRI’s uptime to chance—contact TMC today to learn more about enrolling in Helium Zer0.