American Board of Magnetic Resonance Safety Rebrands as IBMRS, Launches Global Exam Offerings
In a significant move aimed at enhancing its global presence, the American Board of Magnetic Resonance Safety (ABMRS) has officially rebranded itself as the International Board of Magnetic Resonance Safety (IBMRS). This change marks a pivotal moment for the organization as it expands its scope and services to meet the needs of MR safety professionals around the world. The announcement was made on May 26, 2026, indicating a clear commitment to enhancing magnetic resonance (MR) safety certification on a global scale.
The rebranding reflects the evolution of MRI technologies and practices, which have increasingly crossed borders since the ABMRS's inception. Initially established in 2015, the organization has played a crucial role in setting high standards for MR safety certification in the United States and now seeks to extend its influence on an international level. David Jordan, Ph.D., Chair of the IBMRS, stated, "The new IBMRS name proudly expresses what we have been doing organically for a long time—serving the needs of MR safety professionals worldwide."
Moreover, the IBMRS is set to introduce examinations for certification in various countries, including locations in the European Union, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, and New Zealand. This expansion is not only reflective of the growing global demand for MR safety professionals but also emphasizes the organization's dedication to improving MR safety standards through education and certification.
Throughout its transition, the IBMRS will continue offering well-established certifications, including MR Safety Officer (MRSO), MR Medical Director (MRMD), MR Safety Expert (MRSE), and a new certification for MR Safety Technologist (MRST). These certifications are designed to ensure that professionals responsible for MR safety possess the requisite knowledge and skills to safeguard the well-being of both patients and practitioners in MR environments.
Emanuel Kanal, M.D., founder and past Chair of the IBMRS, highlighted the organization’s longstanding goal to become an internationally recognized entity. He stated, "From the first days of the inception of the American Board of MR Safety, we prospectively clarified and declared that the objective was to become an international organization focusing on MR safety certification."
This renaming initiative will encompass all organizational communications and materials. During the transition period, the organization will retain the phrase "formerly known as ABMRS" to maintain recognition within the MR community. Importantly, certificates issued under the ABMRS name will still be valid, and certified professionals will receive new IBMRS certificates upon their next recertification.
The IBMRS aims to serve the growing global workforce in the magnetic resonance field, providing pathways for professionals to achieve the necessary certifications that validate their expertise. For information regarding certification and exam registration, interested parties are encouraged to visit the official IBMRS website at https://ibmrs.org. This strategic shift not only underscores the organization's commitment to safety in MR practices but also positions it as a leader in the international MR safety landscape.