Everything patients ask us.

Physically, yes — the sides are open, so nothing surrounds your head and you can see out of the machine in both directions. Tell us about the previous attempt when you call so we can plan for it: extra time, someone at the table with you, and breaks between sequences.

Open systems don't have a fixed tunnel to squeeze into, which is why they suit larger patients. There are still table limits that vary by scanner, so call with your height and weight and we'll confirm the right location before you make the trip.

Usually, yes — as long as they pass the same metal screening you do and there's no contraindication. Let us know when you book so we can screen them ahead of time instead of at the door.

An MRI is generally 20 to 45 minutes depending on the body part and whether contrast is ordered. A CT is usually under 15 minutes and an X-ray is quicker still. Plan on arriving about 15 minutes early for paperwork.

An MRI makes knocking and buzzing sounds while images are being taken — that's the machine working, not a problem. We provide ear protection, and we talk to you between sequences so you always know how much is left.

You hold a call button for the whole scan. Press it and we stop. Most people who need a break are able to finish after a minute or two.

We can provide mild sedation on site. All medication is provided solely at the clinical discretion of our medical provider following an in-person health screening, so it is not something we can promise in advance. Ask when you book and we will schedule time for the screening. If sedation is given, you will need someone to drive you home.

Your doctor's order specifies it. If contrast is ordered we'll tell you when we confirm your appointment and let you know whether to skip food beforehand. Tell us if you have kidney problems, diabetes, a prior reaction to contrast, or if you're pregnant or breastfeeding.

Call us before your appointment. Pacemakers, defibrillators, aneurysm clips, cochlear implants, neurostimulators, some older stents, and metal fragments in the eye all need to be checked first. Bring your implant card if you have one. Most joint replacements and dental work are fine, but we still need to know.

Photo ID, your insurance card, and your doctor's order if you have a paper copy. Wear something without metal — no zippers, snaps, underwire or metallic thread — and leave jewelry at home. We have gowns if that's easier.

Tell us before you're scheduled. MRI without contrast is generally considered safe in pregnancy, but CT and X-ray use radiation and your doctor may want to postpone or choose a different exam. We'd rather have the conversation early than at check-in.

Usually, yes — the imaging itself has no effect on your ability to drive. But if you take any sedation, whether prescribed by your own doctor or provided here, you must arrange for someone else to drive you home. Tell us when you book so we can plan for it.

A radiologist reads your images and sends a report to the doctor who ordered the scan, so results come from their office rather than from us. Ask about current turnaround when you schedule.

Yes. Ask at the front desk or call us afterwards and we'll get you a copy of your images and report.

Diagnostic imaging needs an order from a licensed provider. If you don't have one yet, call us anyway — we'll tell you exactly what to ask your doctor's office to send.

MRI uses a magnetic field and radio waves and is best for soft tissue — discs, cartilage, ligaments, the brain and spinal cord. CT uses X-rays to build cross-sections and is fast and strong for bone, chest and abdomen. A plain X-ray is the quickest look at bones and chest. Your doctor picks based on what they're looking for. There's more on each of these on the MRI, CT and X-ray pages.