The CAR has consistently advocated for the Federal Government to invest in radiology to address long wait times for examinations and increase access to medical imaging for Canadian patients.
The Canadian Drug Administration (CDA) recently completed two health technology reviews of MRI and CT capacities, and the overall findings echo the CAR’s advocacy priorities.
The first review focused on CT exam volumes, specifically the number that can be performed per scanner on an hourly basis, based on 2022-2023 data from the Canadian Medical Imaging Inventory. The data analysis focused on how different factors impact CT exam throughput, like equipment specifications, staffing levels, and number of CT units per site.
One of the key findings stated, “sites with newer CT units (less than 5 years old) and higher staffing levels (measured by full-time medical radiation technologist positions) generally had higher throughputs, indicating that technological advances and sufficient staffing support better operational efficiency.” The review confirmed what the CAR has been prioritizing with the Federal Government, noting that “operational efficiency is not solely dependent on the number of CT units, but also on how well resources are utilized, including equipment maintenance, staffing, and scheduling. Addressing inefficient workflows, optimizing staffing levels, and ensuring CT units are used effectively can increase the number of hourly exams.”
The second review examined trends in MRI exam volume over 16 years with the aim of informing policy decisions regarding medical imaging policy and access. Focusing on 10 jurisdictions with consistent MRI capacity, the CDA analyzed trends in total and per capita MRI exams between 2007 and 2023.
Several of the review’s key findings reflected the CAR’s calls for more funding to address health human resource shortages, burnout, and the overall growing demand for MRI exams. From 2007-2023, total MRI exams increased 117% (from 1.02 million to 2.21 million) and exams per 1000 people increased by 80% (from 30.9 to 55.6). “Given the increasing use, decision-makers may wish to consider capacity challenges, ensuring efficient use of existing MRI and supporting technologies, workflows, and processes,” stated the review. “Addressing these areas may help reduce wait times, support recruitment and retention efforts, and ensure sufficient capacity to meet future demand. The variation across jurisdictions highlights the importance of tailoring solutions to local needs and contexts.”
As Day on the Hill approaches, these two CDA studies offer data that demonstrate the growing demand for medical imaging services and the need for federal investment.