Scan Day and Safety
MRI Preparation and Results Timeline: Week-of, Day-of and After
A practical timeline for preparing for an MRI, from authorization and fasting to the scan day, report turnaround and follow-up with your doctor.
Before-You-Book MRI Checklist
Work through price, coverage, safety and preparation questions before you schedule a scan.
0 / 15 completed
Price and coverage
Safety screening
Preparation
After the scan
Use this checklist while you are on the phone with the imaging center and your insurer, and again the day before the scan. It groups the steps that most often prevent surprise bills and last-minute cancellations. Tick each item as you finish it; your progress is saved only in your browser on this device.
The list is built from the process described in our guides on getting a Good Faith Estimate and questions to ask before you book. It is not medical advice. Your doctor and the imaging center's own instructions always take priority, especially for fasting, medications, contrast and implants.
If an item does not apply to you, such as prior authorization when you are paying cash, simply skip it. Bring the finished list, your photo ID, your insurance card and your doctor's order to the appointment.
Related guides
Choosing a Provider
Questions to Ask Before Booking an MRI: A Phone Script
The price, insurance, safety, comfort and results questions to ask an imaging center before you commit, with what a good answer sounds like.