Elevating Women’s Healthcare with the Philips EPIQ Elite Ultrasound System
Introduction
In today’s advancing landscape of women’s healthcare, clinical providers demand imaging systems that can keep pace with growing expectations for diagnostic precision, workflow efficiency, and patient comfort. At the forefront of innovation stands the Philips EPIQ Elite—a premium ultrasound platform engineered to meet the diverse and evolving needs of OB/GYN and maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) providers. With cutting-edge imaging technologies, advanced diagnostic tools, and workflow enhancements, the EPIQ Elite isn’t just an upgrade—it’s a transformative asset to women’s healthcare.
What Is the Philips EPIQ Elite?
The Philips EPIQ Elite is the latest flagship ultrasound platform in Philips' high-end EPIQ line, developed with specialized tools and configurations for key clinical areas—including obstetrics, gynecology, and fetal cardiology. It delivers ultra-premium image quality, intuitive usability, and clinical versatility across a wide range of applications.
Unlike earlier iterations, the EPIQ Elite isn’t just about sharper images—it’s about deeper diagnostic confidence. Philips has built this system from the ground up to support advanced decision-making, reduce operator fatigue, and streamline exams for practices dealing with high patient volume and complex cases.
What’s Improved in the EPIQ Elite?
The EPIQ Elite builds upon the trusted legacy of the original EPIQ systems with a host of technical and workflow advancements. These improvements are particularly valuable in women’s healthcare, where detailed visualization and confident early diagnosis are critical.
1. nSIGHT Imaging Architecture
Philips’ proprietary nSIGHT imaging offers superior image resolution and penetration—key for visualizing deep anatomical structures and fetal development. It combines precision beamforming with massive parallel processing, providing fast frame rates and improved detail resolution without compromising on depth.
2. xMATRIX and PureWave Transducers
With the Elite platform, Philips pairs advanced system processing with their latest transducer technology:
- xMATRIX probes allow for real-time 3D (also known as 4D) imaging, crucial for fetal anatomy assessments and maternal-fetal bonding.
- PureWave crystal technology enhances penetration and resolution, especially for technically difficult patients, ensuring consistent diagnostic quality.
3. TrueVue and TouchVue for 3D Imaging
Philips’ TrueVue lighting technology provides photorealistic rendering of fetal features, offering both clinical insight and emotional engagement for expectant parents. TouchVue allows clinicians to interact with the 3D image in real time using the touchscreen interface—enhancing user control and workflow.
4. AI-Enhanced Tools and Automation
New AI-driven tools such as aBiometry Assist and OB Measurements reduce manual steps and improve consistency in fetal measurements. These features are designed to speed up exams while maintaining accuracy—an essential benefit in busy OB/GYN practices.
5. Ergonomics and User Experience
With a modern, height-adjustable console, tilting monitor, and simplified touchscreen workflow, the EPIQ Elite is built to reduce strain on sonographers and improve overall user satisfaction.
Who Should Consider the EPIQ Elite?
The Philips EPIQ Elite is ideally suited for women’s health specialists who demand exceptional image quality and comprehensive tools for diagnostic confidence. Practices that benefit most include:
1. Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) Practices
MFM specialists handle high-risk pregnancies and rely on high-resolution imaging for fetal anatomy scans, Doppler studies, and fetal echocardiography. The EPIQ Elite’s performance in early fetal assessments and advanced cardiac views makes it a top-tier choice.
2. OB/GYN Clinics and Imaging Centers
For general obstetric and gynecological applications, the Elite provides excellent value through its broad transducer compatibility, reliable measurements, and streamlined workflow—supporting everything from routine pregnancy checks to endovaginal studies and fibroid assessments.
3. Women’s Imaging Centers
Multi-modality women’s imaging centers can use the EPIQ Elite alongside mammography or MRI for complementary diagnostic ultrasound, including breast, pelvic, and thyroid scanning.
4. Academic and Teaching Hospitals
Teaching institutions appreciate the clarity and consistency of imaging during training, as well as the ability to archive and analyze data using DICOM and PACS integrations.
Value and Cost Considerations
The Philips EPIQ Elite is a premium imaging solution, and like all advanced ultrasound systems, pricing reflects its clinical capability and hardware sophistication. However, its total cost of ownership can be optimized through flexible acquisition models and long-term support.
1. Initial Investment
The cost of a new Philips EPIQ Elite typically ranges between $120,000 to $175,000, depending on the configuration, number of probes, and software options. Customized OB/GYN packages with 3D/4D and Doppler imaging capabilities are at the higher end of the spectrum.
2. Flexible Financing
Preferred Medical offers purchase, lease, and demo-to-own options to support budgetary flexibility. This allows growing practices to access high-end equipment without compromising their financial health.
3. Pre-Owned Systems
Certified pre-owned EPIQ systems are also available at significantly lower prices—typically 40–60% less than new units. Preferred Medical inspects, tests, and warranties all refurbished systems for reliability and peace of mind.
4. Warranty and Support
Every new EPIQ Elite sold through Preferred Medical includes a five-year Philips-backed warranty, ensuring coverage for parts, labor, and remote support. This reduces ongoing maintenance costs and provides peace of mind.
5. Training and Onboarding
All systems include on-site or virtual training, plus application support for OB workflows, ensuring staff are confident in system use from day one.
How the EPIQ Elite Supports Better Care
When it comes to women’s health, imaging plays a critical role not only in diagnostics but also in the patient experience. The EPIQ Elite helps elevate both through:
- Early Detection and Intervention: High-quality imaging allows for earlier diagnosis of fetal anomalies, uterine conditions, or breast masses—supporting better outcomes.
- Fewer Repeat Scans: Reliable image clarity reduces the need for repeat scans due to poor resolution or inconclusive results.
- Patient Comfort and Connection: Advanced 3D rendering and faster exam times improve both the emotional and physical comfort of patients.
- Efficient Workflow: Automated tools and ergonomic design improve exam speed, reduce sonographer fatigue, and allow more patients to be seen each day.
Why Choose Preferred Medical?
Preferred Medical is a trusted Philips distributor, specializing in women's health imaging solutions. We provide:
- Consultative equipment selection to match clinical and operational needs.
- Turnkey installation and training for a seamless startup experience.
- Flexible financing and pre-owned options to meet every budget.
- Ongoing support through our U.S. field service network.
With over 35 years of ultrasound expertise, Preferred Medical empowers women’s health providers with the tools and confidence to deliver outstanding care.
Final Thoughts
The Philips EPIQ Elite isn’t just an ultrasound system—it’s an investment in diagnostic clarity, workflow efficiency, and patient-centered care. For OB/GYN and MFM providers looking to elevate their imaging capabilities, the EPIQ Elite offers an unmatched combination of power, precision, and practicality.
To explore whether the EPIQ Elite is the right fit for your practice, or to request a demo, contact Preferred Medical at (866) 492-1313 or visit our website today.
