Physician FAQ's

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How do I refer my patient?

Complete the U3T MRI Requisition Form and submit to us.  Our radiologists will protocol the exam and our patient care staff will contact your patient to book their appointment.  Copies of the interpretive report will be sent to your office.

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Can my patient self-refer for an MRI?

Patients require a referring physician to whom reports can be sent.  Requisition forms can be dropped off, mailed, faxed or scanned and emailed to our office. Once we receive the requisition form, our radiologists will protocol the form to determine if your patient is fit to have an MRI exam. Then we will call your patient directly to schedule an appointment at their earliest convenience. 

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Who receives the MRI results?

The referring physician will receive the results as well as patients will receive a copy of all images and an interpretive report.  The results can also be sent to any other health care provider as specified by the patient.

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​Do you provide contrast studies?

Yes, when required, Gadolinium can be used to enhance the ability of the MRI to see into your patient's body. This procedure would only be done after discussion with and consent from your patient. Of all the MRI studies in the world, about 15 - 20% use contrast.

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Can anyone have an MRI scan?

Some people may not have an MRI. Due to the strong magnetic field required to create an MRI scan, certain internal metallic objects may exclude some patients from having an MRI. These include pacemakers, neuro-stimulators, some types of intracranial aneurysm clips, implanted drug infusion devices, foreign metal objects in the eye, shrapnel, bullet wounds and some intra-uterine contraceptive devices (IUCDs). If the patient has been a sheet metal worker, a machinist or has had a prior metallic injury that has not been removed by a physician, they may need an X-ray before determining if an MRI scan is safe. All parts of the patient's body are exposed to the magnetic field so we need to know the medical history to determine if it is safe for the patient to have an MRI.

 

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What if my patient suffers from claustrophobia?

Our system offers generous patient access, fresh air flow, ambient lighting and a modern design. Scans of the lower extremities (eg. knees, ankles, feet) are done feet first and will therefore have the patient's head outside of the magnet. If claustrophobia is still a concern, you may prescribe a mild sedative, which has been found to be effective most of the time.

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Will U3T MRI Centre direct bill my patient's insurance company?

Some extended health plans may cover all or a portion of these costs but the patient will be responsible to determine what they may be covered for under a private plan.  U3T MRI Centre will not direct bill private insurance companies.  Have your patient check their plan for details and inform them that payment is to be made at the time of the examination. We accept Visa, Mastercard, Debit and cash - we do not accept personal cheques.

 

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There is strong evidence that 3T MRI is more diagnostic than 1.5T MRI for the type of study my patient needs. What should I do?

There may be a limited number of select clinical situations that qualify for public funding at U3T. If you are exploring options for a publicly-funded MRI at U3T, please call 1-844-425-5267.