Sustainability: The New MRI Prototype

As the need for imaging services continues to increase, many healthcare facility administrators have to expand their MRI capabilities to accommodate patient demand.

More than ever, these administrators are recognizing the value of component construction methods and are opting for modular approaches. Modular structures are smart choices because they are cost-effective, fit well when space is at a premium on the healthcare campus, and adapt to meet future patient care requirements.

In addition to cost-effectiveness and adaptability, administrators should also consider sustainability as they plan new facilities. Increasingly, healthcare facility managers are recognizing the value of “green” buildings and asking for proposals that incorporate sustainability into the project plans.

These healthier, more environmentally friendly, sustainable, and ecologically responsible buildings are especially suitable within the healthcare sector.

Advancements in sustainable healthcare building technologies afford healthier spaces for patients, staff, and visitors.

Benefits of higher-performing structures include decreased operating costs, greater productivity, improved occupant health, and reduced ecological impact. Factors that contribute to a structure’s sustainability include the use of green materials, improved energy efficiency, and enhanced workflow.

Modular buildings are inherently sustainable because the concurrent construction process used to build them minimized construction waste and maximized quality control. The inherent design flexibility and adaptability of modular buildings contribute to sustainability for years to come.

Modular structures also support attainment of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification, which is becoming ever more desirable for healthcare organizations. LEED credits may be leveraged by registering a project’s checklist and developing pre-certification estimates.

A State-of-the-Art MRI Prototype

For example, modular space solution provider Williams Scotsman is one of the first companies to incorporate sustainable design technology into its plans for modular MRI suites.

With extensive experience building critical-access hospitals, imaging and dialysis centers, medical clinics, and labs, Williams Scotsman has provided accelerated building solutions for thousands of healthcare institutions with needs for additional space.

The company’s approach balances new technology and design concepts with efficient materials to ultimately create superior healthcare environments.

Williams Scotsman, in collaboration with Hord-Coplan-Macht, an architecture firm based in Baltimore, recently introduced a state-of-the-art MRI prototype. Interior and exterior modifications to the architectural appeal improve access to natural light and increase airflow into the building – enhancing the overall patient experience.

Prototype designs include an MRI modulus or basic single unit, and an MRI manifold, which configures modules together in various layouts to fit specific applications.

The flexible layout options allow for the addition and expansion of additional diagnostic imaging modalities – such as CT, PET, and cardiac catheterization – as the healthcare operation expands to offer these additional services. This “sequencing for growth” approach allows for future adaptability.

Sustainability of the MRI unit is maximized through improved patient and staff flow patterns. Maintenance issues are mitigated through the utilization of high-quality durable materials, including:

When used in conjunction with modular construction, these materials create a premium-quality and sustainable product.

Modular Building Guidelines for Sustainable MRI Facilities

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) provides guidelines for the design and construction of hospital and healthcare facilities. In addition, there are special considerations for MRI suites.

The original equipment manufacturer’s specific spatial and technical requirements for the MRI unit must be taken into account. Spaces to be incorporated in the overall design include a patient waiting and changing area, control room, scan room, and equipment room.

Other considerations include shielding requirements specific to each MRI. Accommodations for the Gauss line must be considered with regard to facility placement and shielding.

Looking to the Future

Innovative new concepts demonstrate that modular construction and sustainable design can create a state-of-the-art MRI suite in record time. This is a promising solution as administrators seek ways to stay competitive and meet current – and future – patient demand for diagnostic imaging services.


— Devin Reffitt is the director of healthcare business development for Baltimore-based Williams Scotsman (www.willscot.com). Questions and comments can be directed to editorial@rt-image.com.