Historically, the Department has not retained details of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computerised axiel tomography (CT) scanners.
At the end of 1999 data collection commenced for MRI scanners (to aid the new opportunities fund cancer programme), and in 2000 for CT scanners (to aid the capital investment programme).
The total installed base to date for the national health service in England is 372 CT and 284 MRI. This reflects data from 1997 onwards. The figures include replacement and additional equipment.
MRI CT 1997 4 16 1998 24 20 1999 19 34 2000 18 28 2001 36 77 2002 22 61 2003 28 42 2004 40 38 2005 53 41 2006 36 10 Total 280 367
The remaining scanners installed before 1997 are currently being replaced, (four MRI and five CT).
The Department has commissioned work with the health protection agency (HPA) to identify and compile a national equipment and utilisation database. This project is expected to report in spring 2007.