HealthTech Ghana and 37 Military Hospital have opened Ghana's first helium-free MRI centre. This new facility is part of a public-private partnership. It significantly expands diagnostic services at 37 Military Hospital in Accra. The Philips BlueSeal MRI system is the centrepiece of this initiative. It is the first 1.5T helium-free magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system in Ghana. The centre also includes advanced computed tomography (CT) scanning. A full range of laboratory and clinical diagnostic services are also available.
The partnership aims to tackle long-standing problems in public hospitals. These include equipment breakdowns and lack of maintenance. It also addresses the difficulty of replacing expensive medical equipment. Private sector investment combines with the hospital's existing infrastructure. This creates a self-sustaining model. It will not rely on regular government budget cycles for operation. The project began on June 8, 2026, with free MRI scans for eligible patients. These appointments are available for two weeks until June 20, 2026. Patients must be registered at 37 Military Hospital. They need a completed doctor’s request form for an MRI.
This development fits into a broader plan for Ghana's healthcare sector. The government aims to improve access to advanced medical technology. Many Ghanaians previously faced high costs or long travel distances for MRI scans. Daniel Morkla, Chief Executive Officer of HealthTech Ghana Limited, highlighted this challenge. He stated that for many years, Ghanaians needing an MRI had to pay expensive fees. Some had to travel far to Accra or Kumasi. Many simply went without the scan. This partnership seeks to change that reality.
The diagnostic capabilities extend beyond MRI. The centre offers CT scanning and digital X-ray services. Mammography and ultrasound services are also available. These services operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. They cover imaging for the brain, chest, abdomen, and musculoskeletal system. This helps diagnose conditions like stroke, trauma, and cancer. Integrated laboratory diagnostics in haematology, biochemistry, and pathology are also provided. This aims to reduce the need for patients to visit multiple facilities.
The initiative is the first in a series of planned national expansions. These will focus on public-private partnerships. The long-term goal is to make advanced medical imaging and dialysis treatment accessible to all Ghanaians. This includes people of all income levels and in all regions. The 37 Military Hospital project is a significant step forward. It positions the hospital as a leading diagnostic centre in Ghana. Daniel Morkla noted that the centre is not just about the MRI. It offers a comprehensive diagnostic suite. Patients can receive thorough assessments on-site. This restores confidence in Ghana's public healthcare system.