Bridging Health Disparities: Accessible MRI in Underserved African Countries

Motivation: Neurological disorders, including cerebral malaria and HIV/AIDS-associated complications, are leading causes of death in underserved African nations, hindered by a lack of medical equipment, particularly MRI facilities. Goal(s): We seek to address two key questions: the need for MRI facilities in underserved African regions and the potential of accessible MRI in reducing healthcare disparities related to medical imaging. Approach: We employed a multifaceted approach, involving literature review, interviews, and evaluations of accessible scanner benefits and enhancements. Results: The marked disparities in MRI capabilities in Africa underscore the pressing need for investment in enhanced MRI infrastructure and customized imaging technologies, tailored to resource-limited settings. Impact: This research underscores the urgent need for MRI facilities to address neurological disorders in African countries, highlighting infrastructure gaps and the potential for innovative, compact MRI solutions to improve healthcare in resource-limited settings.