Frequently Asked Questions

No — we perform non-contrast MRI scans only. There's no IV, no injection, and no dye involved. If your doctor specifically ordered an MRI with contrast, that study needs a facility that administers contrast, and your provider can point you to one.

Yes — an MRI requires a provider's order. Your provider can fax it to (314) 804-7226, or you can bring a printed copy. Don't have one? See how to get an MRI order — urgent care or telehealth can often provide one quickly.

We don't bill insurance — that's how we keep the price at $399. Many patients find that's less than their deductible or a hospital copay. HSA and FSA cards are accepted. See our full pricing breakdown.

A board-certified radiologist reads your scan and the report is ready in 24–48 hours. It goes to the provider who ordered the scan, and we'll email you a copy if you ask.

Everything: the scan itself on our Siemens 1.5T, the radiologist's report, and a CD of your images. There are no separate facility or reading fees.

Often, yes. Request online for open slots, or call us and we'll check the schedule for you — the closest openings are easiest to grab by phone.

You're not alone — many of our patients are. Our scanner has a short bore, and our team takes the time to keep you comfortable. Call us at (314) 834-7226, or contact us if you'd like to talk it through first.

No — and we won't pretend otherwise. An MRI is a diagnostic scan. It gives your doctor a picture of what's going on inside your body, and that picture points you in the right direction. It doesn't promise a specific result — some reports come back unremarkable, and that's useful information too. Your doctor uses whatever the report says to plan your next step.

Scan time is typically 25–30 minutes. Plan for up to an hour total in the department for check-in and positioning. A board-certified radiologist reads your scan and the report is ready in 24–48 hours.

Comfortable clothes without metal: no zippers, snaps, underwire, or jewelry. We'll provide a gown if anything you're wearing has metal. Leave metal objects (keys, phone, wallet) at home or in the locker we provide.

Yes. Our scans are non-contrast, so there's no sedation and no reason you can't drive yourself home.

Use the restroom before your scan — we'll point it out at check-in. Most scans are 25–30 minutes, and your head stays outside the machine for most exams, so you can tell us anytime if something's wrong; we can stop the scan.

Nothing special. Eat normally, take your medications as usual, and wear metal-free clothing. No fasting, no prep diet — unless your provider's order says otherwise.

The magnet makes loud tapping and knocking sounds during imaging — that's normal. We give you earplugs and noise-cancelling headphones so it's easy to tune out.