Frequently Asked Questions

• How long will it take for my doctor to obtain a report?
• Will I have to pay for my scan?
• What is MRI?
• How does an MRI work?
• How is MRI different from other types of imaging?
• What kinds of conditions can be diagnosed using MRI?
• How do I get an MRI scan at Kingston MRI?
• How long will the MRI take?
• I am claustrophobic and my doctor has given me an oral sedative.  When should I take the sedative?

How long will it take for my doctor to obtain a report?
Written reports are faxed or mailed to your doctor generally within approximately 5 -10 days of your exam, often sooner. If you know you have a follow-up doctor’s appointment sooner, please let our staff know so we can make appropriate arrangements. Delays in obtaining images of previous exams conducted at other sites may at times extend the time required to produce our reports.

Will I have to pay?
If you have Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) coverage, you can receive MRI scans at no cost providing we receive a requisition signed by an Ontario physician certified with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).

MRI scans paid by third party payers (insurance companies, WSIB, Canadian Military) will also be at no cost to patients. However pre-approval from third party payer is required before the MRI scan is scheduled.

Non-Ontario residents with a requisition signed by an Ontario physician should call the office for clarification.

What is MRI?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses radio-frequency (RF) pulses within a magnetic field to create detailed images throughout the body. Particular strengths are in detailed images of the brain, spine, musculoskeletal system, and blood vessels.

How does an MRI work?
MRI uses a magnetic field and radio frequency pulses (radio waves) to produce images. Patients must lie flat on a table within the magnetic field. Radio waves are then sent into the magnetic field where the body is triggered to emits a signal through a small release of energy. The MRI detects that energy and a computer turns it into images.

How is MRI different from other types of imaging?[/medium]
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is one of a variety of diagnostic imaging technologies, including conventional and digital X-ray, computed tomography (CT), ultrasound, and nuclear medicine. Each plays a vital, complementary role in modern medical diagnosis. MRI is particularly helpful in providing detailed images of the brain, spine, musculoskeletal system, abdominal organs, pelvic organs and blood vessels. Unlike other imaging modalities, MRI is completely painless and without side effects and no radiation is used. MRI is sometimes used to avoid the dangers of angiography, repeated exposure to radiation, or for patients who cannot receive iodinated contrast.

What kinds of conditions can be diagnosed using MRI?
Conditions such as tumours, strokes, multiple sclerosis, herniated discs, ligament tears, and plaques in blood vessels can be exquisitely diagnosed using MRI. Every scan that is conducted at Kingston MRI is medically indicated and ordered by a physician certified with the College of Canadian Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Full-body screening scans are not provided.

How do I get an MRI scan at Kingston MRI?
You can receive MRI scans providing you are referred by an Ontario physician certified with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Simply mail or fax a requisition form signed by a referring Physician. The requisition will then be prioritized by an MRI Radiologist and our personnel will call to schedule an appointment.

How long will the MRI take ?
This completely depends on the type of examination ordered.  On average, patients should expect to be in the office for an hour.

I am claustrophobic and my doctor has given me an oral sedative.  When should I take the sedative?
You must NOT take your sedative until after you arrive and have been screened by a Technologist.  Your appointment is booked with ample time for the effects of the sedative to set in.  We also ensure you are in a comfortable, relaxed and secure environment so that any apprehensions you may have are fully addressed.