Physicians' Frequently Asked Questions
* How soon can I get the MR exam done?
* What if my patient needs sedation?
* Is the exam covered under our medical insurance plan and/or patient plan?
* Can my patient still have the MRI test if...?
* Can I have a report sent to other physicians?
* What if my patient is critically ill and needs an MR study?

Q: How soon can I get the MR exam done?

A: Normal scheduling is between two and four working days. If the case is an emergency or very urgent, you will need to contact us directly for same day scheduling.

Q: What if my patient needs sedation?

A: For an adult patient we recommend Halcion, .125 mg and Valium, 10 mg PO, Versed 5-10 mg for IV sedation (but titrated to the patient for best results).

For infants/small children we recommend:

Oral Chloral Hydrate
50 mg/kgunder 1 month
75 mg/kg1 month - 1 year
100 mg/kg1-5 years

If oral sedation does not work, the patient will be rescheduled for sedation with IM Nembutal, 5 mg/kg.

These sedations are provided by the Physican at the facility. If pediatric or adult IV sedation is anticipated, the exam should be scheduled weekdays during early daytime hours for appropriate sedation and monitoring at the facility.

Q: Is the exam covered under our medical insurance plan and/or patient plan?

A: Almost always yes, but we will verify insurance coverage and let the patient know. If you need to know at the time of your call, one of our billing/business representatives will assist you.
Q: Can my patient still have the MRI test if he/she has:

A: Dental Work - Yes, but you should remove anything that can be removed just prior to the exam.

Limb/Joint Prosthesis - Yes, but images in the area of the metal may be blurred or obscured.

Pacemaker - No.

Hearing Aid - Yes, but you must be able to remove it before the test or it may be ruined.

Implanted Infusion Pump - No.

Pregnant - Probably yes, but case details need to be discussed with the MR Center physician and a consent form signed by the patient.

Metallic Foreign Bodies - Depends on how large and where they are located. The patient may need X-rays of the area before a determination can be made.

Please refer to the MR Patient Checklist for complete eligibility. This checklist must be completed and signed before the patient can have the MRI. This is for patient's own safety.

Q: Can I have a report sent to other physicians?

A: Yes, just give the name and address of other physician(s) when scheduling and they will be sent a copy of the report.
Q: What if my patient is critically ill and needs an MR study?

A: Parkside offers a unique critical care monitoring system for these types of patients as long as the patient can cooperate for the study by not moving. Any infusion pump would, however, not be allowed in the scan room.

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