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Gauteng Hospitals’ MRI Upgrade Offers Hope to Thousands Waiting for Scans

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3 months ago

June 9, 2025

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New MRI machines promise faster scans and shorter waiting times in Gauteng’s public health sector

If you or a loved one has ever waited weeks or months for an MRI scan in Gauteng’s public hospitals, relief is finally on the horizon. A big push to modernise diagnostic services is underway, with brand-new MRI machines installed at major hospitals, including Steve Biko Academic Hospital and Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital. These upgrades aim to slash the frustrating scan backlogs many patients face daily.

Old machines, long waits, and mounting pressure

For years, public hospitals in Gauteng have struggled with outdated equipment, growing patient numbers, and staff shortages. This has led to long queues for critical imaging services like MRI scans. Many patients, especially those needing urgent diagnosis, were left waiting far too long. The situation sparked growing public frustration, with social media buzzing about delays and sometimes even calls for urgent government intervention.

Health and Wellness MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko acknowledged the challenge. “We know the pressure these hospitals face, and that’s why we’re committed to turning things around,” she said.

Fresh machines, fresh hope

Earlier this year, Gauteng’s health department began installing new MRI machines at four major academic hospitals Steve Biko, George Mukhari, Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic, and Chris Hani Baragwanath. The latter’s addition marks the completion of the province’s rollout across its central hospitals.

Charlotte Maxeke commissioned its new MRI machine in March 2025, replacing older, often unreliable units. Steve Biko also swapped out an old machine that had been decommissioned. These machines aren’t just shiny new toys. They come with maintenance agreements ensuring quick repairs and less downtime a serious improvement over past experiences when faulty machines meant months of delays.

At the same time, tertiary hospitals like Helen Joseph, Kalafong, and Rahima Moosa also offer MRI scans, helping to spread the diagnostic load.

Backlogs remain but relief is coming

Despite the upgrade, there’s still a backlog. Charlotte Maxeke has over 2,300 patients waiting, and George Mukhari has about 450. To tackle this, hospitals have extended imaging hours, streamlined appointment bookings, and boosted radiology staff numbers.

Emergency scans get top priority, with some hospitals now able to offer same-day MRI scans for urgent cases a huge step forward for trauma patients and critical diagnoses.

For hospitals still awaiting their MRI machines, like Tembisa, referrals to nearby equipped hospitals ensure patients don’t fall through the cracks.

Tech upgrades beyond the machines

The Gauteng Department of Health is also improving digital systems such as PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System), which store and manage imaging data more efficiently. This means faster reporting and less chance of lost images.

Additionally, the department is looking into helium-free MRI machines. These models avoid helium shortages and potential service disruptions caused by cable theft a growing problem affecting hospitals nationwide.

What this means for Gauteng residents

This overhaul reflects more than just new gadgets. It’s about improving access to quality healthcare in a province where public health services are often the last hope for many families. While there’s still work to do, these investments signal real progress toward reducing the often overwhelming demand on Gauteng’s hospitals.

On social media, many South Africans have welcomed the news with cautious optimism, urging that this momentum continue and that the department keep being transparent about ongoing challenges and progress.

The Gauteng Department of Health is clear that the work isn’t finished. MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko promises ongoing upgrades and regular updates to the public, aiming to ensure diagnostic services are fair and accessible for all.

For now, the installation of these new MRI machines marks a critical step in restoring trust and efficiency in Gauteng’s public health system a step that thousands of patients will be grateful for.