MHRA update recognises that imaging animals deserves the same attention to safety as its human equivalent

For the first time, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency’s (MHRA) MRI safety guidance includes dedicated guidance relating to veterinary MRI. Education and training company Everything MRI states that this update recognises that imaging of animals presents unique challenges that deserve the same attention to safety, governance and best practice as MRI of humans.

“As veterinary MRI continues to grow around the world, so too does the need for appropriately trained professionals,” the company comments. “Veterinary patients are fundamentally different from human patients. Anaesthesia is almost always involved, animal anatomy varies significantly between species and breeds, and veterinary teams often work with equipment, monitoring systems and workflows that require specialised knowledge. These differences mean that simply applying human MRI practices is not enough. Inclusion of veterinary-specific recommendations by the MHRA is a clear indication that the speciality is maturing and that expectations around safety standards are evolving. It also highlights the importance of continuous education for radiographers, veterinary nurses, veterinarians, physicists and everyone involved in delivering MRI services to animal patients.”

Everything MRI believes that veterinary MRI deserves its own educational pathway rather than being treated as an extension of conventional MRI practice. Its Veterinary MRI course was developed alongside experienced veterinary MRI professionals to help bridge this knowledge gap, covering the principles, safety considerations and practical aspects of imaging a wide range of animal patients.

Read this report on page 16 of the September 2026 issue of RAD Magazine.