Do you need an MRI scan test? A doctor may request this scan to confirm any injuries, abnormalities or tumors in body organs. In order to help you understand more about MRI, we have prepared a guide for you.
What is MRI
MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. It is a special type of diagnostic test that uses a technology similar to X-rays. However, instead of simply capturing single images per scan, the MRI machine can capture several images for greater detail.
It uses a large magnet, radio frequency and a computer to scan and produce the images.
Benefits of MRI
There are certain advantages in using MRI. Most of the time, the scan is used to diagnose diseases such as cancers and tumors. But it can also be used to detect injuries.
Health concerns that MRI can detect include but not limited to:
- Stroke, bleeding in the brain, aneurysm
- Heart disease including aneurysm or plaques in the arteries that may lead to hear attack
- Torn ligaments, bone fractures, muscle and other extremities
- Diseases in the lungs or even the presence of tumors
- Cancer disease if there is a suspected tumor present in the brain, lungs and other body parts
How to Prepare for MRI Scan Test
If you have a scheduled MRI scan, the doctor or technician will provide you instructions. If your MRI requires contrast, you may need to undergo blood test first.
Later, the staff will also guide you when it comes to administering the dye for the MRI.
On the other hand, the plain MRI is simple and may not require any preparation.
Reminders:
- Remove any metals from your body, you may be provided with a hospital gown.
- Tell the staff whether you have other metal implants in the body
- Having metals inside the body, for example from an injury, requires that you mention it to the staff before the test. Remember, the machine will use very powerful magnets. Any metal in your body may be dangerous.
MRI in the Philippines
MRI in the Philippines are widely available in most hospitals and diagnostic centers. One can find them even in clinics where there are services for scanning tests.
Most major hospitals have their own MRI machines that a patient can avail.
Types of MRI in the Philippines
An MRI scan can be used to see the insides of the body. This way, doctors can view tissues, bones, muscles and internal organs. There are several types of MRI scans.
However, there are two types of MRI according to the way the scan will be done.
Plain MRI
This is the standard MRI scan which can examine different parts of the body. It uses large magnets to produce the images of the body part and render it into a computer. The doctor will decide if this type is best for your current condition.
MRI with Contrast
This second type of MRI scan uses a dye similar to an ink to see the internal organs much better. There is an additional procedure before the patient undergoes the scan. The dye will be injected into the veins so that it can be seen by the machine as it flows to blood vessels.
Plain vs MRI with Contrast
An MRI with contrast provides more details in the results of the scan. The doctor will recommend which one is best for the patient’s condition.
The one with contrast is usually more expensive than plain MRI. It may also require additional expenses since one needs to have clear blood test before the dye can be used.
There is also an option to take the MRI via mouth but this depends on the instructions of the doctor or the organ and body part to be scanned.
In most hospitals, the average cost of MRI with contrast is Php 2,000 more compared to the plain version.
Cranial MRI
The cranial MRI type targets the skull of the patient. However, it is possible to have this type of scan even if the internal organs such as the brain are required for the test. The doctor will specify how it will be done and which parts requires special attention. The price rate of cranial MRI also depends on whether you need a contrast or not.
Average Cost of Cranial MRI: Php 5,000 to Php 8,000
Brain MRI
An MRI scan may also be performed on the actual brain alone. Although it will also be able to scan through the cranial or head part, a particular emphasis on the brain may be done.
In most cases, the cost of brain MRI is the same as with head and cranial scans. Inquire about this at a hospital near you.
Average Cost of Brain MRI: Php 5,000 to Php 8,000
Head MRI
Head MRI is usually similar to cranial MRI. It may be required for diagnostics that relate to the brain and skull. Head MRI price in the Philippines vary depending on the hospital where you want it done.
Average Cost of Head MRI: Php 5,000
Knee MRI
This is one of the most common MRI types. Usually, those with injuries or health problems with the knees undergo this scan. Some conditions like severe arthritis, broken knee or other injuries may require this scan.
The cost of MRI for the knee differs whether the patient needs plain or with contrast.
Average Price of Knee MRI: Php 6,000 to Php 9,000
Lumbar MRI Scan
MRI scan can also be used for the lumbar area. In some cases, it is indicated to be lumbosacral MRI scan. The test can detect herniated disc, tumor in the spine or any abnormalities in the area. The updated cost of lumbar MRI in Philippine hospitals are available when you inquire.
Average Cost of Lumbar MRI: Php 6,000 to Php 8,000
Abdominal MRI
Orbits MRI
Pituitary MRI
Hospitals With MRI in the Philippines
Almost all major hospitals in the Philippines have MRI scan services. One can find them in both private and government hospitals. It is ideal to use a list of hospitals with MRI scan to help you decide on the price and location.
It is best if you could avail of the test at a hospital that is nearest to you to avoid inconveniences. We have prepared a list of hospitals where you can have the test. Disclaimer: Indicated prices are estimates only, contact the hospital for an updated cost of their MRI scan.
Mandaluyong
Median MRI Scan Price: Php 6,000
Available MRI Scan Types: cranial, spine, lumbar, brain, head, knee, shoulders
Price Inquiry Contact Number: 8464 9999
Manila
Median MRI Scan Price: Php 5,000
Available MRI Scan types:
- Cervical, Thoracic, Lumbar, Sacral
- Brain, Orbit’s, Pituitary Gland
- Neck, Chest, Abdomen, Pelvis
- Shoulder, Elbow, Wrist, Hand, Hip, Knee, Ankle, Foot
- Head, Neck, Chest, Abdominal, Renal, Extremity/Run off
- Spectroscopy, Diffusion, Perfusion, Functional Imaging
- Heart or Cardiac, Breast
- Whole Body
Price Inquiry Contact Number: 5856910
Median MRI Scan Price: Php 6,000
Available MRI Scan types:
- Abdomen, Chest, Neck, Pelvis
- Breast, Cardiac, Diffusion, Perfusion, Spectroscopy, Whole body MRI
- Brain, IAC, Orbits, Pituitary Gland, Seizure Protocol
- Aorta, Extremities, Head, Neck, Renal
- Ankle, Elbow, Hip, Knee, Shoulder, Wrist
- Cervical, Lumbar, Sacrum, Thoracic
Price Inquiry Contact Number: 8558-0888 local 4757
Median MRI Scan Price: Php 4,000
Available MRI Type: brain, cranial, head, knee, abdomen, shoulder, legs
Price Inquiry Contact Number: 5548400
Marikina
Marikina Valley Medical Center
Median MRI Price: Php 6,000
Available Types of MRI: head, extremities, lumbar, cervical, knee, shoulder
Price Inquire Phone Number: 8-682-2222
Pasig
Median MRI Scan Price: Php 8,000
Available MRI type:
Head, neck, chest, abdomen, brain, cranial, knee, elbow, shoulder, ankle, foot, spine, lumbar, cervical, sacral
Price Inquiry Contact Number: 8-988-1000
Quezon City
Median MRI Scan Price: Php 6,000
Available MRI Scan types: brain, lumbar, extremities
Price Inquiry Contact Number: 837-23-825 to 44
Median MRI Scan Price: Php 6,000
Available MRI Scan types:
- MR Angiography
- MR Spectroscopy
- Head and Neck, Abdomen, knee, shoulders, arms, legs, prostate, breast
Price Inquiry Contact Number: 241-8888
Median MRI Scan Price: Php 6,000
Available MRI Scan types:
- Head, Cranial, Brain, Paranasal Sinuses, Orbits, Internal Auditory Canals, Neck, Thorax, Chest
- Abdominal, Liver, Gallbladder, Pancreas, Kidneys, Adrenals, Spleen, Urinary Bladder, Uterus, Prostate Gland
- Cervical, Cervicothoracic, Thoracic, Thoracolumbar, Lumbosacral, Whole Spine
- Shoulder, Hip, Knee, Arms, Legs
Price Inquiry Contact Number: 89252401
Median MRI Scan Price: Php 8,000
Available MRI Scan types: lumbar, cranial, brain, knee, shoulder, head
Price Inquiry Contact Number: 87230101
Laguna
Median MRI Scan Price: Available Soon
Available MRI Scan Types: Available Soon
Price Inquiry Contact Number: (02) 775 2861, (02) 861 6386 or (02) 775 2815 local 110
MRI Scan Price in Philippines
The price of MRI scan in the Philippines starts from Php 5,000 to Php 12,000. The updated cost of MRI in hospitals is around Php 6,000 as an average depending on the type of scan.
Usually, the price rates in hospitals are higher compared to government hospitals. However, they also have the more advanced and latest equipment for the test.
Philhealth Coverage
Most MRI scan procedures are not covered by Philhealth. However, you may avail of the discount when it comes to other expenses especially with doctors’ fees. You may inquire about this when you are about to pay for the test afterwards.
Safety of MRI Scan in the Philippines
Just like in any other countries, the MRI scans provide a safe way to see the internal structures of the body. The good thin is that it only uses magnets and computer systems to interpret the results. It does not have radiation which makes it a safe diagnostic test.
Cancer from MRI
There are certain risks in using radiation for any types of diagnostic procedures and treatment. However, MRI does not involve radiation because the way it produces images. Large magnets provide the way to create images as the machine scans your body.
MRI for Pregnant Women
Pregnant women in the Philippines may need to undergo MRI scan. This is usually true for those who may have other health problems that require internal organ scanning. The doctor will provide more details on whether the patient can have MRI scan or not.
MRI For Children and Babies
There are special instances when MRI scan is needed for children and babies. In some cases, the pedia doctor will decide whether MRI would be helpful or not. The test is generally safe as it involves only magnets to produce the images of the body parts.
The doctor will help you understand how MRI scan’s benefits outweigh the risks involved.
MRI Results
The results of MRI may be provided either in plates (plastic or glossy paper ) or in disc form. The disc or CD may require a player for you to view the results.
On the other hand, plates are readily available. If you wish, you may also request for the MRI results thru email if the hospital allows it.
How To Read MRI Scan Results
When you receive the results, it usually comes with a result paper. It provides the readings from the radiologist or the doctor who performed the scan. However, the details should only be interpreted by qualified professionals.
Your doctor can then read the results and decide if there are other medical procedures that you will need. For example, if there are injuries, tumors, abnormalities and other concerns in your body, the doctor will show it to you using the MRI results.
References: WebMD, Standford Healthcare
Last Updated on November 6, 2023 by Medical Pinas
About the Author: MedicalPinas has several years of experience in publishing articles to help Filipinos find medical services and their prices. It strives to provide the most accurate info available through extensive research. Info may change without notice. This site is not affiliated with any of the mentioned brands/companies and does not represent the same.
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