Gauteng Health is rolling out new MagneticResonance Imaging (MRI) machines to address problems like outdated equipment, surging patient demand, and existing staff shortages that cause lengthy waiting times for crucial diagnostic scans. – The Citizen (10 June 2025)
According to Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, the upgrades are a key component of “a broader turnaround strategy for the provincial health system”.
The rollout has been completed across Gauteng's four central hospitals (Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, Helen Joseph, Kalafong, and Rahima Moosa).
“Despite these improvements, some hospitals continue to experience considerable patient backlogs for MRI scans. Charlotte Maxeke Hospital currently has 2,347 patients awaiting scans, while Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital has a backlog of 450.”
The Department is also investing in a Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) to streamline the storage and reporting of medical images, improving efficiency and collaboration between healthcare professionals.