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X-ray machines aren't all that expensive.

MRI machines generally run close to capacity because of how expensive they are. There is very little slack.

Cancer treatment already costs a fortune.

A quick Google search shows me that I could afford to buy a used lower-end MRI machine... (not that I would) They don't seem that expensive (though there's a factor of 10 difference between the cheapest lower-resolution used machines and the high end)

The ease of availability of same-day MRI services in London suggests to me there's quite a bit of slack here at least.

EDIT: Though one solution to preparedness for temporary capacity issues without as much over-provisioning everywhere: Mobile suites. My local hospital currently has a mobile MRI suite parked outside to clear their backlog.

there's more expensive equipment than just an x-ray machine and MRI machines, those were just examples. The building itself is expensive. Having the labor there ready to respond and service patients is expensive. Overall there is a ton of overhead with very expensive inputs that even if you come in and end up just getting a tylenol, you're going to pay for part of it

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