MRI
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), obtains detailed images of organs and tissues to help diagnose certain diseases or conditions. MRI does not use ionising radiation (used for x-rays or CT scans). Instead, it uses a very strong main magnetic field, rapidly changing local magnetic fields and radiofrequency energy combined with powerful computer processing to create very clear pictures of internal body structures.
Our services
The Richard Slaughter Centre of Excellence in Cardiovascular MRI at The Prince Charles Hospital is a specialty cardiovascular imaging facility and provides Australia’s largest cardiovascular MRI service. The facility also provides inpatient and non-Medicare billable general MRI services such as neurological and body MRI imaging to patients of The Prince Charles Hospital.
How to access this service
You need a referral letter from a specialist medical practitioner to access this service. GP referrals are not accepted. Your doctor will need to send your referral letter to the hospital.
You will receive an appointment booking letter or we will contact you to arrange a suitable time for your appointment.
How to prepare for your test
- Some MRI procedures require specific preparation. We will send you instructions with your appointment letter.
- Unless otherwise instructed, continue to take any medication prescribed by your doctor.
- Please call us prior to your appointment if you are, or suspect you might be, pregnant or are breastfeeding.
- Please call us prior to your appointment if you have any implanted devices such as pacemakers, neurostimulators, aneurysm clips, infusion pumps or other devices.
- Please confirm your appointment as soon as possible. Due to the demand for this service, your appointment may be cancelled if you do not confirm your appointment.
- Please arrive on time for your appointment. Due to the demand for this service, late arrivals may be rescheduled to the next available appointment.
What to bring
Each time you visit us
- Your Medicare card
- Private health insurance card (if you have one)
- Health Care Card and/or concession card (if you have one)
- Current medications (prescription, over the counter and herbal medicine)
- Relevant x-rays, scans or any other test results or reports
- Glasses, hearing aids and mobility aids
- your sleep equipment – machine and accessories (CPAP or bilevel)
Frequently asked questions
What happens during the procedure?
What is contrast?
What happens after the procedure?
Contact us
Medical Imaging Department
Location: Ground floor, Main Building, The Prince Charles Hospital
Phone: (07) 3139 4599 (appointments)
Fax: (07) 3139 4807
Open: Monday-Friday 8.00am-5.00pm
Need help outside hours?
For non-urgent medical issues call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) or visit your GP.
In an emergency call 000.
Resources
Health professionals
The Richard Slaughter Centre of Excellence in Cardiovascular MRI at The Prince Charles Hospital performs all types of cardiac MRI examinations (acquired and congenital heart diseases). Children under the age of 12 may be referred to the Lady Cilento Children’s Hospital.
Specialty general and non-Medicare billable MRI examinations are performed on TPCH patients following approval by the duty Radiologist.