Imaging in the fast lane: Challenges and opportunities for expanding access to MRI

MRI technology has continuously advanced since its inception in the 1980s, yet access to MRI remains restricted due to its high cost and traditionally long acquisition times. This article reviews access-oriented strategies for expanding MRI availability in neuroradiology, focusing on the following: 1) workflow efficiency enabled by accelerated and artificial intelligence-assisted imaging, 2) targeted MRI protocols designed to answer specific clinical questions, and 3) emerging low-field and portable MRI technologies for resource-constrained and point-of-care settings. We provide practical trade-offs, provide limitations, and use case-driven frameworks to inform real-world implementation. Examples of how these technologies are used in neuroradiology are provided along with perspectives on the advantages and disadvantages of each approach. This article portrays current accessibility issues and paves the way for an improved understanding of the opportunities and future of expanded MRI access.