Erlanger Medical Center plans to add an "open" MRI scanner for heavier patients and those who have claustrophia.
The total project cost, including some renovations, is $1,314,901.
The scanner will replace an older model closed MRI scanner.
Erlanger officials said a study of Intensive Care patients showed 30 percent are over 300 pounds.
Larger patients cannot fit in the closed scanner, and many others refuse to go in the closed unit due to a fear of being closed in.
Erlanger officials said they have had numerous requests from the community and physicians for the open scanner.
The purchase is from Toshiba for $1,162,965.
Officials said not putting in the open scanner would mean lost patient revenue for Erlanger.
There are four other open MRIs locally, officials said.