Medical Imaging in Rural Sabah: Current Barriers and Emerging Solutions

Abstract

Access to medical imaging remains limited in rural Sabah, Malaysia, due to geographical barriers, inadequate infrastructure, and a shortage of skilled radiology personnel. These constraints hinder early disease detection and timely medical intervention, perpetuating health disparities between urban and rural populations. This review examines the importance of medical imaging in rural healthcare, outlines current challenges, and explores innovative approaches to improve service accessibility. Emerging solutions include the use of mobile imaging units, task-shifting to optimize available human resources, and public–private partnerships (PPPs) to leverage shared infrastructure and expertise. Furthermore, teleradiology and artificial intelligence (AI) offer transformative potential in enhancing diagnostic accuracy, workforce training, and efficiency. Drawing lessons from successful models in Malaysia, Uganda, Saudi Arabia, and China, this paper highlights the need for a sustainable, multi-sectoral approach integrating policy support, technology adoption, and local capacity building. Such efforts are essential to ensure equitable and high-quality diagnostic services for Sabah’s rural and underserved communities.