Muskoka Algonquin Health Care (MAHC) is planning to increase MRI operating hours to expand capacity and help address current wait times at Huntsville District Memorial Hospital.
Bobbie Clark, director of communications at MAHC, said since opening in July 2025, more than 2,000 MRI scans have been completed. This has allowed patients to receive care closer to home, reducing the need for travel, particularly for inpatients who would otherwise require transport to other facilities.
“While local access has improved convenience and reduced travel, overall wait times remain a challenge across Ontario due to a shortage of technologists and MRI scanners,” said Clark. “Increased availability may also be contributing to higher demand, as more patients are now being referred for imaging.”
According to Clark, urgent and high-priority cases are still being handled within the required provincial timelines, even though wait times for non-urgent care have surpassed target levels.
“There are plans to increase operating hours to expand capacity and help address current wait times. The hospital is also actively working to secure additional funding and recruit staff to support long-term growth,” she said.
Clark said future service expansions, such as breast and prostate MRIs, are currently in the planning stages and added these additions will move forward as the necessary funding and resources become available.
“At this time, breast and prostate MRI services are not offered locally. These specialized scans require additional equipment, software, and clinical expertise,” she said. “Patients who require these services may need to travel outside of the region.”
Despite growing demand, Clark said that overall, patients have expressed strong appreciation for having access to MRI services within their community since the service began.
Clark also said the service has had a positive impact on hospital personnel, significantly improving workflow and efficiency. Physicians now have better access to the most appropriate diagnostic tools, enabling more informed clinical decisions.
“There has also been a reduction in the number of patient transfers to other facilities, and fewer nurses are required to accompany patients for imaging outside the region. This allows staff to remain onsite and focus on patient care,” she said.
