Can I get an MRI scan without a referral?
Asked by: Ebba Strosin | Last update: August 13, 2025Score: 5/5 (24 votes)
Can I just go and get an MRI scan?
An MRI is a medical test that has to be ordered by a doctor. It must then be ready by another doctor (radiologist) and then that report can be interpreted by a doctor who can then create a plan of care.
Can MRI be done without a doctor's referral?
MRIs, CT scans and x-rays are important procedures for people with concerning health issues. While there are some instances where you could get one of the imaging tests done without a referral, at most medical facilities, you will need a referral for CT scans, x-rays and MRIs.
Can I book an MRI scan without a referral?
Getting an MRI scan is a straightforward process. Patients seeking a scan through the NHS will need a referral form, whereas those choosing private healthcare may be able to self-refer. The MRI referral form itself contains a patient's symptoms and reasons for needing a scan.
Can I schedule an MRI without a doctor?
Generally speaking you cannot get an MRI without a health care provider first giving you a referral. MRIs need to be read in context so getting one without a physician seeing you may lead to more confusion, and in many states is illegal.
How to Get Your Doctor to Order an MRI or CT/CAT Scan
Can I pay for an MRI without a referral?
Can I get an MRI without a referral? While it is possible to get an MRI without a referral, medical referrals are important because your insurance may deny coverage without one, and diagnostic imaging can be expensive if you're paying out-of-pocket.
How much does an MRI scan cost privately?
How much is an MRI Scan? Prices start at €280, however, the exact price you can get will depend on how many areas were scanned and whether or not you required contrast.
Can you get an MRI referral from urgent care?
While urgent care centers typically do not have MRI capabilities on-site, they can refer you to a radiology center, hospital, or specialist for an MRI if it is deemed necessary after evaluation.
What is the cheapest way to get an MRI?
To save money on an MRI, shopping around for the best price by comparing costs at different facilities is essential. Independent imaging centers often offer lower rates than hospitals, and many provide cash payment or self-pay discounts, especially for those without insurance or with high deductibles.
Why won't my doctor send me for an MRI?
While MRIs are a great tool, they are often not ordered immediately unless the physical exam shows neurological deficits or the doctor thinks that you will probably need surgery.
How to get an MRI approved by insurance?
In the majority of instances, obtaining a referral from your doctor is typically required for insurance approval of an MRI. It is crucial to have a thorough conversation with your doctor regarding the specific reasons for needing the MRI and to request a comprehensive explanation within the referral.
Do I need to see a doctor before an MRI?
Yes. Before your MRI, it is advisable to talk to your doctor about any underlying medical conditions you may have as strong magnetic fields are used in the MRI machine. If you have claustrophobia, talk to your doctor so you get properly prepared for your MRI. Usually, claustrophobic people are sedated for their scan.
How to get an MRI asap?
The best way to get an MRI is to talk to your physician about a referral. At freestanding imaging centers and whole-body MRI providers (like ezra), clinicians might be able to write a medical order for you.
How hard is it to get an MRI?
Most people get through the exam without difficulty. The MRI machine creates a strong magnetic field around you, and radio waves are directed at your body. The procedure is painless. You don't feel the magnetic field or radio waves, and there are no moving parts around you.
Can MRI results be seen immediately?
This means it's unlikely you'll get the results of your scan immediately. The radiologist will send a report to the doctor who arranged the scan, who will discuss the results with you. It usually takes a week or two for the results of an MRI scan to come through, unless they're needed urgently.
How to get MRI without referral?
Millennium MRI is a medical imaging provider that specializes in offering low-cost MRI scans for patients who prefer to pay cash. With no need for referrals, Millennium MRI makes it easier for individuals to get the medical imaging they need without the hassles associated with insurance and high co-pays.
Is a referral needed for MRI?
Booking an MRI without a referral is possible, but it often depends on the clinic's policies and the patient's insurance coverage. Generally, referrals are necessary or highly recommended to ensure that the MRI falls under the patient's insurance policy.
How to get a referral without a primary doctor?
If you don't have a primary doctor or your doctor won't provide a referral, there are alternative ways to obtain one: Urgent Care Centers: Urgent care centers are an option for obtaining referrals for non-emergency conditions. They can evaluate your health issue and provide referrals to specialists if needed.
Why is an MRI not covered by insurance?
While it is unlikely that your insurer would deny your claim for an MRI scan by saying the procedure is experimental, it may claim the scan is “not medically necessary.” The insurance company may require your physician to first perform x-rays and a CT scan to determine the cause of your medical issue because those ...
What is cheaper than MRI?
MRI scans typically cost more than CT scans and produce more detailed images.
Can I pay for my own MRI?
MRI Group offers a self-pay option to eligible patients. Note: due to regulations around the Medicaid product, we are unable to offer a self-pay option for Medicaid patients. Self-pay may be a good option if you are without insurance or have a high-deductible health plan.
Why would you need an urgent MRI?
Here are some examples of urgent MRI findings: Problems in the brain, such as bleeding, evidence of a stroke or an aneurysm, or brain damage. Tumours, including cancerous tumours. Spinal problems, such as injury or disease.
How much is an MRI in the US without insurance?
Key takeaways. MRI costs in the United States vary widely due to factors like insurance coverage, geographic location, and the type of facility. Without insurance, MRI costs can range from $400 to $12,000, while insurance coverage can significantly lower these costs, depending on deductibles and copays.