Mobile MRI reduces wait times for West Texas Veterans
By Madison Rodgers, Graduate Health Technician
As of April 3, 2026, Veterans across West Texas are getting faster access to critical imaging after the West Texas VA Health Care System (WTVAHCS) began using a newly acquired mobile MRI unit, the system announced today.
WTVAHCS says the mobile unit dramatically shortens wait times. Once a primary care provider orders an MRI, most Veterans can be scheduled within a week, and imaging results are returned to the provider within two business days. By contrast, scheduling an MRI with community providers in the region can take 30 days or more, with results often taking an additional two weeks or longer.
“This makes a huge difference for our Veterans,” said Joe Cavazos, Jr., Supervisory Radiological Technologist for WTVAHCS. “They receive the same high-quality imaging as at a hospital, but with much faster scheduling and turnaround. Providers get results quickly so treatment can begin sooner.”
Mobile Tech Bridges Gaps in Coverage
The mobile MRI is a full-sized scanner housed in a specially equipped trailer that travels to VA facilities in the region, bringing advanced imaging closer to rural communities that previously faced long drives and delays. MRI scans help clinicians evaluate conditions such as cancer, neurological disorders and musculoskeletal injuries; faster access can lead to earlier diagnoses and improved outcomes.
The unit also supports cost-effective delivery of care by allowing the VA to deploy advanced services to remote locations without building new fixed facilities.
“One of our goals is to remove barriers to care,” said Acting Medical Center Director Robert Hoff. “Where you live shouldn’t determine the quality or speed of your healthcare. Mobile MRI brings timely, high-quality imaging to rural Veterans.”
Persistence and Cooperation Wins the Day
The effort to get the mobile MRI into service required months of planning and coordination among many partners. Contracting and procurement with the MRI manufacturer and Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN) 17’s contracting office were followed by delivery, site preparation and installation overseen by WTVAHCS Engineering. Environmental Management, Safety and Radiology coordinated technical and regulatory requirements, while HR, Logistics and Credentialing services handled staffing, training and provider privileges. Together these teams completed equipment setup, staff training and system testing before the unit was officially activated for patient care.
WTVAHCS plans to continue using the mobile MRI to expand timely diagnostic services for Veterans across West Texas.