  Presently, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) magnets must deliver excellent
magnetic field (B0) uniformity to achieve optimum image quality. Long magnets
can satisfy the homogeneity requirements but require considerable
superconducting material. These designs result in large, heavy, costly, and
unstable systems that aggravate as field strength increases. This issue is a
crucial factor in the disparity of MR density and field strength use across the
globe. Low-income settings show reduced access to MRI, especially to high field
strengths. This article summarizes the proposed modifications to MRI
superconducting magnet design and their impact on accessibility, including
compact, reduced liquid Helium and specialty systems. Reducing the amount of
superconductor inevitably entails shrinking the magnet size, resulting in
higher field inhomogeneity. This work also reviews the state-of-the-art imaging
and reconstruction methods to overcome this issue. Finally, we summarize the
current and future challenges and opportunities in the design of accessible
MRI.
