Purchasing an MRI Machine: Who Can Buy One?

MRI Scanner Acquisition: Restricted to Qualified Institutions

Individuals cannot purchase MRI machines. These are Class II/III medical devices regulated by FDA (US) and equivalent bodies globally.

Eligible Buyers

• Hospitals and health systems
• Imaging centers / radiology groups
• Academic / research institutions
• Government / military medical facilities
• Large multispecialty clinics

Requirements

1. Regulatory: FDA 510(k) clearance / PMA; state radiation safety registration; accreditation (ACR, Joint Commission).
2. Site Preparation: RF-shielded suite (Faraday cage), structural reinforcement (5–10+ tons), cryogen venting, chilled water, 3-phase power, emergency quench pipe.
3. Personnel: Board-certified radiologists, MRI technologists (ARRT certified), medical physicist, safety officer.
4. QA/QC Program: Daily/weekly/monthly phantom testing, SAR monitoring, safety zones.
5. Financial: $1M–$3M+ (1.5T–3T); annual service contract $50k–$150k; helium refills.

Why Restrictions Exist

• Patient safety (projectile risk, heating, acoustic, contrast reactions)
• Quality assurance (diagnostic accuracy)
• Radiation protection principles (non-ionizing but high-energy)
• Prevent misuse/self-diagnosis

If you need an MRI, get a referral to an accredited facility.