What is Necessary to Know Before an MRI is Scheduled

An MRI is a test using radiofrequency and a very strong magnet. The magnet is on all of the time even when we are not scanning the patient. That is why we put up numerous warning signs all over the facility so that no one will walk in the scanning room until we know they are safe to go in.

Before you are scheduled the patient checklist is important to fill out to be sure you or anyone who is accompanying you into the scanning room is safe to go in (a copy of the patient checklist is available for your review in the patient's section).

Please try to remember if you have had any implants that have a metal component.

We ask that you take off anything that has metal. Usually your wedding ring is okay to leave on unless we are scanning that hand.

Wear comfortable clothes such as cotton sweatsuits—preferably anything that doesn't have metal.

The scanner does produce some heat to your body. This affects people randomly. Some feel the heat while others do not.

It will be necessary to provide us with all of your health insurance information ahead of time. Also, don't forget to bring your insurance card.

Your prescription is very important for us to review prior to your MRI exam. Please ask your doctor's office if it can be faxed to our facility so that we perform the correct exam on you. Many times when people try to read the prescription over the phone we schedule you for an exam that is incomplete or even wrong. If this happens it may be necessary to either reschedule you or try to contact your doctor. This will cause a delay.

The best time to come in for an exam without waiting usually is taking the first appointment of the day. Although we really try to be on time with our appointments, we often get backed up due to emergencies, children who are sedated and do not always fall asleep as we would like, and some exams may take longer than the appointed time.

MRIs are highly tailored exams specific to each patient's needs. We try to give each patient the care and the scanning time they need. This can create a problem with the schedule, however, so we ask for your patience when we are running behind.

If your doctor has made a special request such as the type of magnet he may prefer or you prefer, you must explain this while you are scheduling ahead of time.

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