Could MRI and CT Scanners Be Operated More Intensively in Canada?

Abstract

Although availability of necessary equipment could play a role in wait times for MRI and CT exams in Canada, there are other dimensions to this issue. More machines in operation do not necessarily reduce wait times. It is important also to consider the level of utilization of the existing pool of scanners.This paper analyzes utilization of MRI and CT scanners (machines) by focusing on two indicators: the number of exams per machine per year and the number of hours of operation per machine per week. These values were calculated and reported by province, followed by an assessment of the average level of utilization of MRI and CT scanners in Canada. The findings suggest that some provinces use their MRI or CT scanners less intensively than others. On average, in Canada, an additional 31% operating capacity may exist for MRI and 68% for CT without additional capital or infrastructure investments. However, supply-side as well as demand-side constraints may prevent a given jurisdiction from operating at full capacity.