Updated MRI Machine Price Guide
Comprehensive list of MRI machine cost reflecting current market conditions.
*Estimates includes delivery and installation charges.
Click Here For An In-Depth Review and Comparison of all GE MRI Scanner Models.
How Much Does An MRI Machine Cost?
If you’re in the market for an MRI machine, you may be wondering what kind of price range you can expect. MRI machines are complex and expensive pieces of equipment. MRI machine price can vary greatly depending on manufacturer, model and imaging capabilities.
There are three main categories of MRI machines: Entry-Level, Advanced Level and Premium Level MRI Scanners. Each category has different capabilities and price ranges.
1. Entry-Level MRI Machine ($95k to $150k)
The entry-level category is the 1.0T and 1.5T MRI machines, which typically have 4 to 8 channels. MRI machine price in this category can range from $95k to $150k. Some of the most popular models in this category include the GE Signa LX, GE Excite HD, Philips Intera, Siemens Magnetom, Siemens Symphony, Toshiba ExcelArt, and Vantage 1.5T MRI.
- Lower acquisition and installation costs compared to other categories.
- Suitable for basic imaging needs, such as examining the brain, spine, and joints.
- Provides high-quality images for routine exams and some advanced applications, such as musculoskeletal imaging.
Ideal for small clinics, outpatient centers, or hospitals with limited budgets. Some models in this category may have faster scan times or better image quality than others, depending on the manufacturer and specific features.
2. Advanced Level MRI Machine ($200k to $375k)
The Advanced Level category includes 1.5T and 3.0T MRI machines, which usually have 8 to 16 channels. Prices for machines in this category can range from $200k to $375k. Some of the most popular models in this category include the GE Excite HDxt, GE HD23x, Philips Achieva 3T MRI, Siemens Espree, Siemens Avanto, and Toshiba Titan.
- Offers more advanced imaging capabilities than entry-level scanners, including faster scan times and higher resolution.
- Suitable for more complex imaging needs, such as cardiac, breast, and abdominal imaging.
- Can provide more accurate and detailed images for diagnosis and treatment planning.
Ideal for larger clinics, hospitals, and imaging centers that perform a higher volume of scans.
Some models in this category may have specialized features for specific applications, such as functional imaging or spectroscopy.
3. Premium Level MRI Machine ($400k+)
Finally, the premium-level category includes 3.0T or higher MRI machines, which have 16 channels or more. Prices for machines in this category typically start at $400k and go up from there. Some of the most popular models in this category include the GE Signa Voyager, GE Optima 750w, Philips Ingenia, Siemens Aera, Siemens Skyra, and Canon Vantage Galan 3T.
- Provides the highest level of imaging quality and performance, with faster scan times, higher resolution, and more advanced capabilities
- Suitable for the most complex and demanding imaging needs, such as neuroimaging, research, and advanced clinical applications.
- Provides the most detailed and precise images for diagnosis and treatment planning.
Ideal for large hospitals, academic medical centers, and research institutions that require the best possible imaging technology.
Some models in this category may have unique features, such as ultra-high field strength, multi-nuclear imaging, or advanced motion correction, that are not available in lower categories.
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MRI Machine Operating Costs
This section details the associated expenses to owning an MRI that can largely impact operating expenses. You can find a breakdown of MRI installation costs here.
The true cost to own an MRI scanner can often be considerably more than the list price. Aside from the initial purchase price of the the MRI system, there are additional costs that should be considered when planning to buy MRI systems.
You should plan for the additional costs listed below as they are typically not included in the delivery and installation of your MRI.
Service and Planned Maintenance MRI Cost
MRI repair service and PM costs vary according to system type and imaging center location. Average response time, service uptime and MRI parts logistics are key metrics in reducing system down time. Ensure your MRI service provider meets your criteria.
Service contracts range from $5k per month (Tier 1) to $20k per month (Tier 3).
Hourly-billed service (HBS) is also offered by many of the MRI service providers, rates vary from $300/hr to $600/hr.
MRI Magnet Maintenance Cost
MRI magnet maintenance service may be included in the MRI service contract, but that is not always the case.
Maintaining the coldhead, compressor, and magnet pressure within factory specification requires the use of specialized tools, knowledge and often a separate contract.
This work is typically outsourced to a cryogenics specialist that maintains magnet homeostasis and fills the MRI with liquid helium as needed. See more below.
Magnet maintenance and monitoring services range from $500/mo to $2k/mo.
MRI Liquid Helium Price
MRI magnets contain between 1200 L and 2000 L of liquid helium. With liquid helium prices in 2022 peaking at over $70 per liter, magnet maintenance and (most importantly) avoiding liquid helium loss is a top priority.
One cryogenic event can set an imaging center back as much as $45,000.
Long-term service contracts where you can cap your liquid helium cost or insure system function are great cost-effective solutions. Check with your sales professional for current market pricing.
MRI Machine Price Insights
The decision to purchase an MRI scanner depends on the intended use, clinical requirements, and budget of the buyer. While entry-level scanners are suitable for basic imaging needs, more advanced categories offer faster scan times, higher resolution, and more advanced capabilities that are necessary for complex and demanding imaging needs. Ultimately, it’s important to carefully evaluate the features and benefits of each category before making a purchase decision.
It’s worth noting the MRI machine price ranges listed here are just a general guide. The actual price of an MRI machine can vary based on a number of factors, including the specific model, any additional features or capabilities, and the vendor or supplier. If you’re interested in purchasing an MRI machine, it’s important to do your research, shop around, and get quotes from multiple suppliers to ensure you’re getting the best possible price for your needs.
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Conclusion
The most important factors to consider when planning the purchase of an MRI machine is price combined with imaging capabilities to meet your imaging needs. For example, do you plan on scanning MRA, MRCP, or other specialized sequences? Do you require shortened sequences for cardiac imaging?
Once you can assess your imaging needs, it is much easier to choose the right MRI for your imaging center. With so many options on the medical imaging market, it is important to have a knowledgeable representative that can ask the right questions.
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