MRI scan and health insurance

For most people, having an MRI scan is straightforward. Before the scan, a radiographer will go through a safety questionnaire with you. This is to check if you have any metallic implants or fragments such as a pacemaker, plates, wires or screws which may affect your suitability for the scan. Answering yes to any of these questions doesn't automatically mean you can't have the scan. The radiographer will make a decision based on your individual circumstances. ^{Footnote [1]}  

You should tell the radiographer if you’re pregnant, think you might be pregnant or if you’re currently breastfeeding. A doctor will discuss any risks with you before they go ahead with the scan.

MRI scans can also be used to assess babies and young children, but they might need general anaesthetic or a sedative to help them stay still.

In some cases, an injection of a contrast medium (dye) is given before or during the scan. This helps to show more detail in the pictures and makes tissue and blood vessels easier to see.

The MRI contrast medium is generally safe, but there can be mild side effects such as nausea, dizziness, headache, or a skin rash. These usually don’t last very long – you might be asked to wait about 30 minutes after the scan to make sure you don’t have a reaction.

The contrast medium can cause organ or tissue damage if you have kidney disease. You might have a blood test before to check your kidney function beforehand.

Before your scan

You can usually eat, drink and take medications as normal before your scan. The radiology team will let you know if you need to do anything to prepare for it.

It’s normal to feel nervous about going into the MRI scanner. You can discuss other options available to you with the imaging department when you get your appointment letter. ^{Footnote [1]}  

When you get to the hospital for your appointment, the radiology team might ask you to change into a hospital gown. If you don’t need to wear one, you’ll still be asked to remove any metal objects such as belts, buckles or clothes with a metal zip.

If your child is having an MRI scan, you can usually take them into the scan room. The radiographer will let you know if you can stay for the scan itself.

During your scan

The radiographer will explain what to expect during your scan and how long it will take. Scans can last anywhere between 15 to 60 minutes, but can take longer depending on the type of imaging needed. ^{Footnote [1]} They’ll speak to you at different points of the scan to give you instructions or reassurance. You’ll also be offered ear protection to help make you more comfortable – the MRI machines can be very noisy. The radiographer might give you a buzzer to press if you need to talk to them when you’re in the MRI scanner.

Once they’re ready to start the MRI scan, it will usually follow this pattern:

1. The radiographer will help you on to the scanning table – either on your front or back. They may give you foam pads to help position your body.
2. The table will then slide into the scanner, which is open at both ends. You’ll enter head or feet first – this depends on which part of your body is being scanned.
3. You'll be encouraged to relax and lie still. The procedure is usually painless.

You might be offered different imaging tests for a few reasons – like if you’ve already had other scans, or if an MRI scan is not suitable for you. Examples of other scans could be:

• A CT scan, ^{Footnote [2]} which uses X-rays to create images of soft tissue and bones.
• An ultrasound ^{Footnote [3]} scan. These use high-frequency sound waves to create images of the inside of the body. They can be useful for seeing soft tissue and fluid-filled structures , like the bladder.
• An X-ray ^{Footnote [4]} is a quick and painless procedure. They’re a type of radiation that help look at bones.

After your scan a radiologist will analyse your images and send the results through to your doctor or the consultant that requested them.

If it’s your GP, you’ll need to book a follow up appointment to talk about the results. If a consultant requested the MRI scan, they’ll organise your follow-up appointment. ^{Footnote [1]}  

To use your Aviva health cover for an MRI scan, you’ll need to a referral from your specialist. Then you can make a claim quickly and easily through MyAviva, over the phone, or online.

Once we’ve confirmed your claim meets the terms of your policy, we’ll pay any medical bills directly.