In an update to a story that previously appeared in Health Imaging, an unlicensed imaging chain in Arizona is now being regulated after an inmate and a prison guard both became stuck to an MRI machine, with the former suffering severe injuries that required hospitalization.
According to coverage from ABC15, following the incident at a SimonMed location, state health leaders have announced that the imaging chain of more than 60 centers will need licenses to operate in Arizona and have to adhere to safety reporting regulations.
The MRI accident involved Lacey Windust, who suffered serious injuries during a scan in May 2022. The metal shackles around her waist were not removed before the procedure, causing her to become stuck to the machine, where she said she was screaming for help and in severe pain. The armed guard accompanying her became stuck when attempting to assist, though he sustained no injuries.
An investigation by journalists revealed that SimonMed was not regulated or licensed by the health department due to a special exemption, and this lack of oversight prevented the state from investigating the incident or taking enforcement action against the company.
For more, check out the full story from ABC15 at the link below:
Chad is an award-winning writer and editor with over 15 years of experience working in media. He has a decade-long professional background in healthcare, working as a writer and in public relations.