Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

The most detailed views we can get of what is happening inside your body, without a single X-ray.

If your doctor has ordered an MRI, it is because they want the clearest possible picture of your soft tissues, organs, brain, spine, or joints so they can make confident decisions about your care.

What Is an MRI?

An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) uses a powerful magnet and radio waves to create highly detailed, cross-sectional images of the inside of your body.

Because MRI excels at showing soft tissue, muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, the brain, the spinal cord, and internal organs, it is often the best tool when a doctor needs more detail than an X-ray or CT can provide.

Your OneImaging Care Team will help match you with the right center for your scan.

What an MRI Can Help Detect

MRI is used to evaluate a wide range of conditions, including:

Brain conditions such as tumors, stroke, multiple sclerosis, and aneurysms

Spinal issues including herniated discs, spinal cord compression, and nerve pinching

Joint disorders including arthritis, torn ACLs, meniscus tears, rotator cuff injuries, labral tears, and pre-surgical planning

Soft tissue and musculoskeletal disorders, including sports injuries

Abdominal and pelvic conditions affecting the liver, kidneys, pancreas, uterus, or prostate

Cardiac structure and function, and vascular conditions

Timeline – 8 Steps

How to Prepare for
Your MRI

Your imaging center will provide you with exact preparation instructions based on your exam; here are some general guidelines you may expect.

Step 1

Arrive Early

On the day of your exam, arrive 15–30 minutes early to complete paperwork and change into a gown.

Step 2

Use your OneImaging Card

At check-in, use your OneImaging Digital Payment Card to pay for your appointment — your OneImaging card will cover the full cost of your exam.

Do not present your insurance card.
Learn how to use your card here.

Step 3

What to wear

Wear comfortable clothing without metal zippers, snaps, or underwires. Many centers prefer 100% cotton.

Step 4

Remove metal

Leave jewelry, watches, hearing aids, removable piercings, and hair pins at home or in a secure locker.

Step 5

Eating instructions

If your exam requires contrast (a gadolinium-based dye that highlights certain tissues) or if you are having an abdominal or pelvic MRI, follow the fasting instructions from your imaging center, typically no solid food for 4 hours before.

Step 6

Implanted Medical Device
and Shrapnel Details

Bring your implant ID card if you have one, plus a list of current medications.

Step 7

Prior scans

Bring any prior imaging AND reports on disc if requested.

Step 8

Important health information

Tell your care team before you arrive if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have kidney disease, or experience claustrophobia.

What to Expect During
Your MRI

Knowing what happens during your MRI can help you feel more prepared and comfortable.

A comfortable setup

You will lie comfortably on a padded table that moves slowly through the scanner as it captures precise images of the area being studied.

Clear imaging without radiation

The scan is non-invasive and uses no radiation. Some exams may include contrast dye to improve visibility, but many do not.

Guidance through every step

Most MRI exams take 15 to 60 minutes, depending on the area being scanned. Your technologist will guide you through each step and stay in communication during the exam.

Feeling claustrophobic? Let the technologist know at the facility - they can help you feel more comfortable during your scan.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will the exam take?

Plan for 30 to 90 minutes at the center, including check-in, safety screening, and the scan itself. The time you spend inside the machine is typically 20 to 45 minutes.

Is MRI safe?

Yes. MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves, not radiation, making it a safe, non-invasive imaging method suitable for most patients. Patients with certain implants or metal fragments may not be eligible; your technologist will review your history before the scan.

Will I be able to move or talk?

You can talk to the technologist between sequences through a two-way intercom. During each scan sequence, you will need to hold as still as possible for 30 seconds to a few minutes at a time.

How will I get my results?

The imaging center will send your imaging report directly to your ordering physician. As a OneImaging member, you will also receive a copy of your report in your OneImaging account - we will notify you when your report is available.

Questions about your exam or need help scheduling your exam?

Schedule Online

Call us at (833) 619-0837

Need a different imaging service?

Browse our full range of imaging exams

CT Scan

Ultrasound

X-ray

Mammogram