A Blog for Healthcare Consumers

A recent New York Times article correctly pointed out that not all MRI scanners are alike. So how do you, as a healthcare consumer, shop for the best scanner in your area? Although there are many factors to consider, here are a few key questions you should ask:

1. What is the magnetic field strength? Field strength varies from 0.25T to 3.0T. Larger numbers mean the MRI scanner is more "powerful" and can generate higher resolution images. The majority of scanners are 1.5T. If you're claustrophobic, you might need to go to an "open mri". The field strength for these machines varies from 0.2T to 1.0T.

2. Does the machine undergo regular maintenance? If the MRI scanner has a 1.5T field strength but the computers that interpret the data have old software, then the images may not be optimized to give the Radiologist who reads the scan the best images. MRI machines need to be updated and require maintentance and testing to remain accurate.

3. Is the technologist trained? This is also a critical part of the quality equation. If the technologist operating the machine has limited experience then the MRI scan image quality will suffer. Be sure that the center has a registered and certified MR technologist on staff who is familiar with the MRI machine.

4. Who is reading the MRI scan? A board certified Radiologist has spent over 4 years in training learning how to read medical imaging tests such as MRI. Many also subspecialize in areas like Musculoskeletal or Brain and Spine imaging. You should ask the front office staff about the Radiologist's credentials.

5. Is the center ACR certified? The ACR (American College of Radiology) has a certification program that tests the quality of the images generated by MRI scanners. Many insurance companies now require their Radiology centers to be ACR certified. Certified centers are allowed to display the ACR seal.

Of course, you can use our website to help you find the right MRI scan center for you.

Do you have any other tips? What factors did you consider when choosing a local MRI center? Please leave your comments below: