The introduction of clinical magnetic resonance imaging in Australia

The influence of health technology assessment on the diffusion of MRI in Australia

A major assessment of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in Australia influenced the early use of this technology and informed policy decisions on future MRI services. However, the impact of the assessment, and of government policy, on the subsequent diffusion of MRI has been more modest, reflecting the limitations of the evaluation process in a complex health care system.

Cost considerations in the provision of magnetic resonance imaging services

Data from the Australian MRI Assessment Program, which involved five public hospitals, are presented covering the second year of operation at each MRI unit when stable conditions of service provision had become established. The data relate to two 1.5T superconductive units, one 1.0T superconductive unit and two 0.3T resistive magnetic resonance imaging units. A review of the cost data suggests the need for the operation of expensive facilities for extended periods with careful patient selection in order to reduce the average cost per scan and to maximise the clinical benefit to patients. There were variations in the conditions of use of the equipment between the differing centres and there will be a need for a consensus on optimum levels of matters such as operating times and staffing levels. As the results from the MRI Assessment Program were obtained in a teaching hospital environment with a particular referral pattern, the benefits of the technology in other situations will need further consideration.

Magnetic resonance imaging: project planning and management of a superconductive M.R.I. installation

The planning and installation of a Superconductive Magnetic Resonance Imaging (M.R.I.) installation is described at the Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia. Tender specification, assessment of offers via criteria weighted analysis of technical and economic factors and the final recommendation for a 1.0 Tesla unit are discussed. Building and installation considerations are noted including fringe field effects, magnetic shielding, radiofrequency shielding, cryogens, metallic screening and specific considerations in the Magnet room.

Magnetic resonance imaging in spinal disorders

The value of M.R.I. in diagnosing spinal disorders has been tested in a series of 100 patients. C.T., myelography, discography and the operative findings are compared with the M.R.I. findings. The results indicate that M.R.I. is a valuable diagnostic investigation.

Magnetic resonance imaging evaluation: preliminary utilization and application report. Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technical Committee, National Health Technical Committee, National Health Technology Advisory Panel

Preliminary results from 2723 examinations to June 30, 1987, at the first two installations that are participating in a broadly-based prospective trial of the utilization and diagnostic value of magnetic resonance imaging are presented. Compliance by the investigators with the trial protocol was excellent. The head (60% of cases) and spine (31% of cases) were the most common regions that were examined, and such examinations were completed mostly in one hour. Active, mobile outpatients were predominant among those who were examined. Further reports will be directed to particular disease groups, cost studies and patient outcomes.