June 12, 2025
Manitoba Government Launches Mobile MRI Service to Improve Access in the North
The Manitoba government is proud to launch a new mobile magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) service that will significantly improve access to diagnostic imaging for patients living in northern Manitoba, Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care Minister Uzoma Asagwara announced today.
“We made a commitment to improve access to care in our health system and we take that commitment seriously,” said Asagwara. “This mobile MRI unit is an important step in reducing MRI wait times and ensuring that patients in the north have timely access to critical diagnostic services closer to home. It’s about health equity and ensuring people can access the care they need without having to travel far from their community and support network.”
MRIs are vital diagnostic tools used in the detection and monitoring of various health conditions. The mobile MRI unit, operated by Shared Health Diagnostic Services, started seeing patients on June 6 at Thompson General Hospital. Later this year, it will begin rotating between Thompson and The Pas, serving communities across the Northern Health Region.
“This is a significant milestone for our communities,” said Dr. Harsahil Singh, vice-president medical services and chief medical officer, Northern Health Region. “Having access to MRI services right here in the north will greatly improve patient care and allow more patients to receive care close to home, minimizing travel-related stress and ensuring families and caregivers can remain nearby during critical periods of care. The mobile MRI is more than just a diagnostic tool – it’s a symbol of commitment to health equity and better care for all Manitobans.”
The unit represents a major step forward in delivering equitable health care for all Manitobans regardless of where they live, noted the minister. Patients from northern communities in need of urgent or emergency MRIs are typically transported to Winnipeg for their tests. With the addition of a mobile MRI, emergency department patients and hospital inpatients will be able to receive care in Thompson or The Pas, allowing for more timely care which will lead to better patient outcomes, added Asagwara.
The Manitoba government recognizes the challenges being faced by communities across the north including the city of Thompson due to extreme wildfire conditions, noted the minister, adding the province continues to stand with those impacted by the wildfires and thanks Manitobans for their support during this time of emergency.
- 30 -