Low Field MRI as a Potential Equalizer: Addressing Healthcare Disparities Through Socioeconomic Status and MRI Access in the United States

Motivation: While the USA boasts one of the highest numbers of MRIs per million inhabitants, the impact of social determinants of health on accessibility remains uncertain. This issue becomes particularly relevant as Low Field MRI could level the playing field and mitigate existing inequities. Goal(s): Primary goal was to investigate the relationship between MRI availability and poverty rate in the US. Approach: We tested the correlation between poverty rate and both the quantity and geographical distribution of MRIs. Results: The number of MRI units exhibited an exponential decline (R2=0.9823) with the poverty rate, with geographical location and other pertinent socioeconomic factors playing a role. Impact: LF MRI has attributes that make it particularly suitable for implementation in low-middle income countries (LMICs). Nevertheless, features like affordability and portability can also potentially be pivotal in addressing healthcare disparities within the US.