Telangana has 50 CT scanners, only nine MRI machines across government hospitals

Can nine MRI machines meet the diagnostic needs of patients across Telangana’s government hospitals? The State currently has nine operational MRI machines in eight government institutions, compared with 50 functional CT scan machines in 48 institutions, according to figures furnished by the Health Department in the Telangana Legislative Council on September 10.

The figures were provided in response to a question raised by MLC S. Vani Devi, who sought district-wise details of the MRI and CT scan machines currently operational in government hospitals. She also asked whether MRI and CT scan services had been suspended due to a shortage of technicians or radiologists, the average waiting period for the scans, and the measures being taken for emergency patients at private diagnostic centres. According to the government’s reply, as of August 31, nine MRI machines and 50 CT scan machines are operational in government hospitals.