Western Baptist Hospital provides patients with information on what to expect when undergoing an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) study.

What is MRI?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging is a medical technology that uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to allow physicians to explore the inner workings of the human body. No radiation is involved in this procedure. MRI allows your doctor to uncover stroke damage, assess heart problems and even detect cancer in its earliest stages. Conditions that just a few years ago might not have been detected from physical signs and symptoms may now be clearly seen with MRI, giving doctors more time and better information to determine the most appropriate treatment.

Western Baptist Hospital was the first hospital in in the area to install an MRI lab available to patients 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Our new, state-of-the-art 1.5 tesla MRI system offers doctors and patients the best in quality and comfort. For doctors, the system delivers the fastest scanning times and highest resolution images available. Larger patients and those who are claustrophobic will appreciate the system's wide couch, short length and large opening.

Registering for Your MRI

Western Baptist Hospital's Express Check program makes registering for outpatient tests fast and easy. To take advantage of the program, follow these simple steps:

1. As soon as your physician schedules you for your MRI exam, call our pre-registration area at (270) 575-2979. Pre-registration clerks are available 24 hours a day seven days a week to take your phone call. Even if you are scheduled for a test or procedure the same day, it is still to your advantage to call ahead to begin the registration process.
2. Be ready to provide the registration clerk with the following information:
   • your medical record number, if you are familiar with it and you have registered at Western Baptist before;
   • your date of birth;
   • your social security number;
   • your home address;
   • the specific tests or procedures the physician has ordered; and
   • your insurance card.
3. If the clerk is able to complete your paperwork in this phone call, he or she will tell you that you are eligible for Express Check.
4. When you prepare to come to the hospital, make sure you bring your physician orders and your insurance card with you.
5. When you arrive at Western Baptist, proceed directly to the Express Check receptionist, who will copy your insurance card, have you sign a consent form and send you to Diagnostic Imaging.

You may also pre-register online by clicking here.

If you do not take advantage of the Express Check program, plan to arrive at the hospital 30 minutes before your scheduled exam time to complete the registration process.

Before the Examination

Before your examination, the diagnostic imaging staff will ask you some very important questions, including do you have . . .

• A pacemaker?
• Some type of metallic implant?
• Certain types of prosthetic devices?
• Metal objects such as cerebral aneurysm clips (a metal clip on a blood vessel) or cochlear implants (an internal hearing aid)?

The above devices might prohibit you from having an MRI exam. If you have any of these devices, make sure your physician and the MRI staff are informed. If you have doubts or questions, be sure to ask!

Important Reminders

1. There is no prep for this exam.
2. You may eat or drink normally.
3. If you are on medication for pain or otherwise, we ask that you bring it with you.
4. You may also bring a friend or family member with you, as long as they also pass the screening check.
5. Precertification is required in most cases. Please check with your healthcare provider.

How Long is the MRI Exam?

The exam usually lasts no longer than an hour, depending on the information your doctor needs.

What Happens During the Exam?

The actual imaging procedure will be performed in the MRI lab on the first floor of the hospital. Most of the room is occupied by a large magnet with a padded examination table. You will be asked to lie flat on the table which is designed to slide into the center of the magnet. Pillows will be provided for your comfort.

While the machine is in operation, you will hear intermittent humming and thumping sounds. This is quite normal and is simply the sound of the equipment starting and stopping and other mechanical sounds. It is most important that you remain relaxed and completely still during the scan.

How Will I Feel After the MRI?

You should feel perfectly normal and be able to resume your everyday activities.

For More Information

For more information about diagnostic imaging services at Western Baptist Hospital, please call (270) 575-2600.

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