Now that your healthcare provider has recommended you get an MRI scan, you probably have questions about scheduling, insurance, getting ready, and what to expect during your scan. We’re here to help.
In this article, we’ll answer your questions about getting an MRI, and we’ll guide you through the process of scheduling and checking in for an MRI at an American Health Imaging center. We want to make your appointment easy, comfortable, and convenient.
We’ll tell you everything you need to know about scheduling and checking in for an MRI scan at our imaging centers. Let’s get to know how scheduling and check-in work at our imaging centers.
Scheduling your MRI appointment with American Health Imaging
At our imaging centers, we have designed the scheduling process to be as easy as possible, so you can make an appointment quickly.
How do I schedule an MRI appointment online?
All you have to do is visit our website, request an appointment, and one of our team members will call you to schedule your MRI scan. It’s that simple.
Can I schedule an MRI scan over the phone?
Yes, you can schedule your MRI scan over the phone by calling 1-855-674-2464, and one of our available team members will help you.
What information do I need to provide when scheduling an MRI?
You’ll need your healthcare provider’s orders for imaging, your insurance information, and some important details for your MRI technologist (like if you have any metal implants, or if you think you might be pregnant).
How will I know if you receive my healthcare provider’s MRI order?
We will manage all that for you. Before you schedule an MRI, your healthcare provider must either send us an imaging order electronically or by fax, or they must give you a copy of the imaging order that you will provide to us.
Providing your insurance information
It is very important for you to have all your insurance information in order before your MRI scan. We’re happy to assist you in this process. Just provide us with your information, and we will contact your insurance provider to make sure everything is set before your scan.
What insurance details do I need to provide for an MRI scan?
When scheduling, one of our team members will ask you for your current insurance information, which is all printed on your insurance card. Just check your card for all your insurance info.
How does American Health Imaging verify my insurance for an MRI?
Our team will take care of verifying your insurance benefits, and we will bill your insurance, as well. All you have to do is give us the necessary insurance information, and we’ll take it from there.
What are the typical timelines for insurance verification and authorization for an MRI?
Insurance verification and authorization timelines depend upon the state where you reside, your insurance provider, and whether or not your provider requires prior authorization. Most insurance providers require prior authorization.
Verifying insurance is typically completed within 1-2 days, and prior authorizations can take a bit longer, usually between 2-5 days, depending on your insurance. We can complete your prior authorizations the same day, but please keep in mind that not all insurance companies work that way, so please be patient as we sort everything out for your appointment.
If your scan is urgent, we’ll do our best to get prior authorization completed the same day, so we can get you scheduled as soon as possible. As necessary, we can get a patient scheduled for a same-day MRI or for a next-day MRI scan, depending on your circumstances.
Are there any other steps I might need to take for insurance approval?
Every health insurance provider is different and they all have different rules. Some insurance providers will ask for additional information before approving a scan, or more details from your healthcare provider, and they may also clarify what other tests or treatments your provider ordered.
Preparing for your MRI appointment
Getting ready for an MRI at American Health Imaging is pretty easy. Just make sure your insurance information is in order. If you think you will need financial assistance to get the MRI scan, then we can help you with that, as well.
What options are available if I need financial assistance for my MRI?
We offer cash rates for non-insured patients and we accept CareCredit, who will set up an arrangement for you to pay for the scan, over time. To find out more about these payment options, please give us a call at 1-855-674-2464.
How will you confirm my MRI appointment?
Your confirmation will be sent to you via a text message, which will include the date and time of your appointment, and the address for the imaging center where you will have the MRI scan.
What should I do to prepare a day or two before my MRI scan?
We’ll provide you with personalized instructions for how to get ready for your MRI with us. Before your scan, make sure to remove all jewelry and other metal objects from your body, since these can interfere with the image quality. In some cases, your healthcare provider may ask you to fast for a period of time before your MRI scan, so be sure to check with your provider.
Will I receive any reminders or instructions before my MRI appointment?
Yes, a few days before your appointment, we’ll text you a link to complete the check-in process. This check-in process is easy and takes just five or so minutes to complete.
You will be asked about your medical history, confirmation of your insurance information, and you may be asked to upload a smartphone photo of your health insurance card.
A day before your appointment, you’ll receive a reminder by text message, which will include a link to the address of our imaging center where your appointment is scheduled.
On the day of your MRI appointment
Rest assured that MRI scans are non-invasive, painless, and will be over before you even know it. Most MRI scans take less than an hour, and take as little as 15 minutes or less with our fast scanning technology. Remember to remove all jewelry and metal objects, and it’s a good idea to wear loose clothing, as you may be asked to change into a hospital gown for your scan otherwise. Make sure to bring your insurance card, your ID, and a payment method for your co-pay or deductible.
What do I need to do to check in for my MRI?
Arrive at least 15 minutes early to your appointment with your ID card, insurance card, and any other relevant medical documents. A team member at the reception desk will verify that you have completed your prior check-in.
Can I register for my MRI appointment on-site at the diagnostic imaging center?
Yes, if you haven’t checked in before your appointment, we’ll give you a tablet computer so you can complete the check-in process. If you need help completing your check-in, we would be happy to help you.
Do you have MRI machines to accommodate people with larger bodies?
Yes, we’re proud to offer wide-bore MRI machines that have openings of more than 27 and half inches. If you are a larger person, you can comfortably get an MRI scan at our centers.
What can your team do to support me if I experience claustrophobia?
Our technologists have been trained to ease and comfort those who experience claustrophobia. You will be able to speak to and to hear your technologist at all times during the scan, so if you need any help with your scan, they’ll do everything they can to make you feel more comfortable. Our fast-scanning technology can cut the time of your MRI scan in half.
How to schedule an MRI appointment with us
Reach out to us at American Health Imaging, and we’ll help you schedule an appointment at an imaging center near you, today.
We’re here to help you get the answers you need.