Scan With Me: A Train-the-Trainer Program to Upskill MRI Personnel in Low- and Middle-Income Countries.

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Radiologic Technology
• Global Health

Background:

• Access to Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is severely limited in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
• A shortage of skilled MRI personnel exacerbates these access disparities, widening health inequities.
• The Scan With Me (SWiM) program addresses this by building a network of expert MRI technologists in LMICs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a sustainable network of highly skilled MRI technologists in LMICs.
• To facilitate knowledge and skill transfer in MRI acquisition and protocol implementation.
• To improve the clinical and research utility of MRI in resource-limited settings.

Main Methods:

• A 6-week, case-based curriculum using a train-the-trainer approach and peer-collaborative learning.
• The 'teach-try-use' model combines didactic lectures, expert-guided hands-on scanning, and protocol optimization.
• A pilot program focused on cardiac MRI (CMR) evaluated the curriculum, delivery, and assessment methods.

Main Results:

• Forty-three technologists from 16 LMICs participated, optimizing CMR protocols to reduce scan times and enhance image quality.
• Open-access training resources and standardized protocols are available online.
• Participants reported significant improvements in CMR knowledge and skills, with high recommendation rates and interest in future training roles.

Conclusions:

• SWiM is the first master class for MRI acquisition technologists in LMICs.
• The program has the potential to decrease disparities in MRI expertise and accessibility.
• Community, society, and agency support can amplify SWiM's impact in democratizing MRI.