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Questions Regarding MRI and CT
Questions Regarding MRI
What should I expect?
Most MRI exams take between 20 and 30 minutes. During your exam, you will be positioned on a cushioned table, which rests in the center of the MRI examining area. When the exam begins, the table will move into the magnet. It is very important you lie as still as possible during the exam, since movement will blur the images.
What is the benefit of a conventional MRI vs. an open machine?
Scan time of the conventional MRI is typically half the scan time of the same scan performed by an open machine. Additionally, higher quality images determine greater accuracy when it comes time for the radiologists to interpret their findings. (See Duke University articles "MRIs: Openness can only go so far" or "MRI Testing Getting the Most Out of It.")
Will my insurance cover the scan?
New England Health Imaging accepts all insurances. Additionally, for those without insurance coverage, we offer payment plans. You may use VISA, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, personal check, cash or arrange a payment plan for your portion of the bill.
Should you have any questions about insurance coverage, please contact us: (888) 674-4369.
What do I do if I think I am claustrophobic?
By understanding the MRI procedure, many claustrophobic patients realize their fears can be minimized. If you are claustrophobic, please discuss with our MRI technologist and they can provide music and prism glasses to reduce your anxiety. You may also wish in advance of your appointment to request a prescription by your physician. In this case you will need to be accompanied by a responsible adult, as you will be unable to drive yourself home after the scan. Inform your physician if you have experienced claustrophobia in the past.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing without metallic fasteners (zippers, snaps), sports bras are preferable but we have suitable clothing for patients to change into. You should not wear any hairclips or jewelry.
Do I need to bring anything?
You need to bring your insurance card, physician's order (if applicable), and any Worker's Compensation or Motor Vehicle Accident information if this applies. You also need to bring any previous diagnostic films (X-Rays, Ultrasound, CT or MRI scans).
Can you send the results to numerous physicians other than the ordering physician?
Please notify the front desk staff when you check in, if you require numerous physicians to get a copy of your report.
How do I get the results?
Your referring physician will receive the results within 24-48 hours and will then contact you to discuss the findings. Your doctor can make arrangements with the Center if your results are needed urgently.
Can I bring my own music?
Patients should feel free to bring their own music. But they don't have to.
New England Health Imaging has recently equipped all its Massachusetts centers with XM Radio; where patients have the ability to choose from a variety of music genres, sports games, and talk radio to keep them feeling at home during their exam.
Patients can listen to their own music during their exam. Bring your favorite CDs, cassettes, or even your own iPod to listen to during the exam! Our staff can hook up your MP3 player to our stereo system and you will be listening to your own music through our MRI safe headphones during your exam!
Questions regarding CT
What should I expect?
During the exam, you will lie on a table that will pass through the CT scanner, which is a large doughnut-shaped machine. It is open on both ends. The table moves through the round opening of the scanner while the scanner takes pictures. You may hear minimal sounds as the table and scanner move, but this is not unusually loud. You should remain as still as possible throughout the exam, and for certain scans you may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds.
Will I feel anything?
If no contrast is needed for your exam, you will feel nothing. If the IV contrast is needed, you will feel the initial sting or pinch as the IV is started. As the pictures are being taken, the contrast will go in. This can cause an overall warm or flushing sensation; you may even taste a metallic taste in your mouth. All of these sensations are normal and pass as quickly as they come. The technologist will be in close contact with you and will observe you for up to 20 minutes after the exam. Once you leave our facility, you may eat and drink as normal.
Will my insurance cover the scan?
New England Health Imaging accepts all insurances. Additionally, for those without insurance coverage, we offer payment plans. You may use VISA, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, personal check, cash or arrange a payment plan for your portion of the bill.
How do I get the results?
Your referring physician will receive the results within 24-48 hours and will then contact you to discuss the findings. Your doctor can make arrangements with the Center if your results are needed urgently.
Who will be with me?
During the test, you will be alone in the scanning room. However, the technologist will watch you through the window, and you will be able to talk to him or her through a speaker throughout the exam.
How long will the exam take?
The exam time can range from a few minutes to a half hour, depending upon the part of the body being examined and whether or not a contrast agent is used. Most examinations will only last approximately 15 minutes in total.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing without metallic fasteners (zippers, snaps), sports bras are preferable but we have suitable clothing for patients to change into. You should not wear any hairclips or jewelry.
Do I need to bring anything?
You need to bring your insurance card, physician's order (if applicable), and any Worker's Compensation or Motor Vehicle Accident information if this applies. You also need to bring any previous diagnostic films (X-Rays, Ultrasound, CT or MRI scans).
