In a significant step aimed at enhancing the quality of specialized healthcare services, the Qassim Health Cluster the activation of fetal magnetic resonance imaging (FRI) at the MRI unit of the Maternity and Children's Hospital in Buraidah. This initiative is part of the cluster's strategy to integrate the healthcare system and provide the most accurate diagnostic tests to ensure the safety of both mother and fetus.
Advanced medical and technological importance
This service is a significant addition to the healthcare sector in the Qassim region. Fetal MRI is considered one of the most advanced diagnostic tests globally, and it is often used as a crucial complementary diagnostic tool after detailed ultrasound (sonography). The importance of this test is particularly evident in cases where some fetal organs are difficult to visualize clearly via ultrasound, or when subtle congenital abnormalities are suspected, thus helping physicians develop a precise and early treatment plan.
Strengthening the healthcare system regionally
The launch of this service reflects the rapid development of medical services offered outside major urban centers, reducing the need to transfer critical cases to specialized hospitals in the capital or other regions. This expansion of services contributes to achieving the Kingdom's healthcare transformation goals by facilitating access to specialized healthcare and reducing waiting times, thus positively impacting the patient experience.
Complete safety and high efficiency
The Qassim Health Cluster confirmed that fetal MRI is highly safe, as it does not rely on harmful ionizing radiation, making it completely safe for both mother and fetus. The examination typically takes between 20 and 30 minutes and requires no complicated prior preparation, demonstrating the readiness of the medical and technical staff in the radiology department to handle these modern technologies efficiently and effectively.
Statistics and operational figures
In a related context, the Radiology Department at the Maternity and Children's Hospital in Buraidah continued to achieve outstanding performance rates. Operational statistics for 2025 revealed that 3,919 MRI scans and 3,524 CT scans were performed. The department also recorded 12,517 ultrasound scans and 51,410 X-ray examinations, reflecting the significant effort exerted to serve patients and visitors with the highest quality standards.
