Balancing provider priorities
A strategic approach to technology provision emphasises long-term partnerships with MR providers focused on clear KPIs and service enhancements, rather than simply adopting the newest technology. Efforts are underway to reduce waiting times for MR access by expanding MR technology into new settings such as point-of-care, mobile units, and dedicated extremity facilities, thereby alleviating pressure on conventional mid- and high-field systems.

The increasing demand for virtual technician support and centralised command centres for MR fleet management reflects a shortage of a specialised workforce. Operational strategies like managing multivendor fleets or implementing a "hub and spoke" model are crucial for smaller centres with limited staffing, such as community hospitals and orthopaedic centres. Service-line optimisation focuses on operational tools to streamline patient throughput and accelerate scans through improved image enhancement and protocol setup, aiming for faster scans, fewer errors, and enhanced patient safety.
There is also a notable trend toward adopting low- or no-helium MR systems, offering greater infrastructure flexibility by eliminating quench pipes. This supports the broader deployment of MR technology across various locations, considering the growing scarcity and higher cost of helium. However, energy consumption remains a consideration, particularly amidst elevated energy prices.

Future outlook
Expanding clinical applications, increased implementation of AI-driven workflows, and rapid technological innovation position the MR market for mid-single-digit revenue growth through 2028. Chinese vendors are aggressively expanding domestically and globally, posing a growing threat to established global players. The outlook for 2025-2028 is promising, with increased demand expected in screening, neurology, cardiology, and oncology. However, tightening healthcare budgets in mature markets like Western Europe and Japan may impact growth.

MR vendors are demonstrating the long-term value of their investments through smart subscriptions, lifetime coil guarantees, and managed contracts where core components do not require replacement. They are also striving to enhance manufacturing sustainability by developing lighter MR systems that require less energy and use recyclable materials, thus reducing their carbon footprint and improving access and precision medicine. Effective sustainability initiatives are being implemented to enhance efficiency and reduce costs for hospitals and care providers.

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