Global medtech company Time Medical has formally inaugurated the first PICA Open MRI in the Philippines, expanding its international presence and bringing US-engineered imaging technology to Filipino hospitals and diagnostic centers.
MRI machines, from their creation, have significantly impacted how the doctors study internal organs and diagnose certain diseases. Through MRIs, doctors can diagnose and study brain diseases more accurately, as well as ENT conditions, musculoskeletal and spinal problems, cancer and other difficult-to-diagnose conditions in their earliest stages. However, in the Philippines, there are less than 200 MRI systems operating in the country, making the required diagnostic imaging unavailable and expensive to patients, especially in remote areas. From those patients who need MRI scans, many are not able to finish the procedure because of fear and discomfort of being inside a closed tunnel with a loud banging noise for a long time.
According to radiologists, about 20% of the patients are unable to finish the required MRI scans due to anxiety and discomfort. Thus, medtech company Time Medical has added the PICA open MRI in its portfolio of MRI systems. Unlike traditional closed MRI systems, which Time Medical also produces, the PICA model features an open design intended to improve patient comfort — particularly for claustrophobic, elderly, pediatric, overweight or anxious patients with restricted mobility. It is a whole-body MRI system that has an open architecture with an advanced hardware platform and cutting-edge clinical applications to provide patient comfort, fast acquisition times, and excellent image quality that has the capability to deliver almost the same level of performance as
1.5T MRI machines – but easier to maintain and less-costly.
Built Around Patients — Not Just Machines
As the country’s first open MRI that does not require helium, it enhances patient comfort, reduces operational complexity, and is environmentally sustainable. It is innovation aligned with compassion—technology that serves both people and the planet.
For hospitals, this means fewer incomplete scans, improved patient compliance, and a more welcoming imaging environment — while maintaining high-performance diagnostic capability.
Smarter Imaging Through Digital Connectivity
Beyond hardware, the PICA MRI integrates digital solutions designed for real-world healthcare challenges.
The system includes a secured, HIPAA-compliant Teleradiology platform and Open PACS, with software developed by DigiHealth Specialists. This allows high-resolution scans to be securely transmitted and interpreted remotely — helping facilities manage radiologist shortages and reduce turnaround time.
For provincial hospitals and growing health systems, this interoperability can significantly expand diagnostic reach without requiring immediate in-house specialist expansion.
Globally Engineered, Locally Relevant
Time Medical combines US technology with international certifications including US FDA and CE — ensuring the PICA system meets globally recognized safety and performance standards.
In recent years, the company expanded its manufacturing operations through a facility at the Andhra Pradesh MedTech Zone (AMTZ), where one of the first exported units was produced, making the Philippines the recipient of the first Make-in-India MRI that was exported outside of India.
The medtech company’s first venture in the country is initially focused on making its MRI products available. Time Medical is a subsidiary of listed company, Fischer Medical Ventures. “MRI systems are not one-size-fits-all. Many countries, including the Philippines, are not able to maximize their healthcare potential and find solutions because of its financial strain on both institutions and patients. Time Medical has
products designed to help developing countries better cater to their medical imaging needs,” shared Fischer Medical Ventures Group Chairman Ravi Govindan.
Made for Forward-Looking Institutions
For hospital administrators, radiologists, and government decision-makers, the PICA Open MRI presents a compelling combination:
Open, patient-friendly design
Digital interoperability and teleradiology capability
International and local certifications (USFDA, CE, Philippine FDA)
Operational efficiency
Advanced technology positioned for competitive investment
“Patients have already gone through a lot of stress with their sickness. A little comfort while going through the procedures help. That’s what patient-centered care means”, said Time Medical Philippines CEO Joyce Socao who also serves as the region’s patient safety ambassador.
As healthcare institutions modernize and expand services, imaging systems must do more than produce scans — they must integrate, adapt, and support long-term growth.
With its expanding international footprint and patient-centered engineering, Time Medical positions the PICA Open MRI as a forward-looking solution for the evolving needs of Philippine healthcare.
