This MRI Safety Week, Jones Radiology is shining a light on the safety measures built into every MRI appointment across its 13 South Australian MRI clinics, from the moment a booking is made through to the final scan.
Jones Radiology marks MRI Safety Week with a strong focus on patient protection.
This MRI Safety Week, Jones Radiology is shining a light on the safety measures built into every MRI appointment across its 13 South Australian MRI clinics, from the moment a booking is made through to the final scan.
MRI is one of the most valuable tools in modern diagnostic imaging, offering detailed views of the body without ionising radiation. Because MRI machines use powerful magnetic fields, he environment around the scanner needs to be carefully managed.
At Jones Radiology, this starts with clearly defined areas within our departments. Restricted keypad entry, signage, floor markings and physical barriers are all utilised to reduce the risk of unauthorised or accidental entry.
Once inside the scanner, patients will also be exposed to controlled radiofrequency fields. Due to the complex operation of the MRI scanner, it is vital that we know what a patient has implanted inside their body. We can then ensure safety throughout the procedure.
Patient safety is not checked just once. It is confirmed at several points throughout your appointment:
- At booking, clerical staff ask a series of screening questions to identify implants, prior surgeries, occupational metal exposure and other relevant safety factors.
- In the change area, staff reconfirm these details with the patient before they move any closer to the MRI suite.
- At the scan room door, the patient’s MRI Technologist completes one final safety check before the scan begins.
This layered approach means that safety information is verified by several different staff members, rather than relying on a single check at one point in the process.
Jones Radiology also provides advanced implant scanning at Calvary Adelaide Hospital. This service allows patients with certain cardiac and neurological implants, including pacemakers, defibrillators, neurostimulators and cochlear implants, to safely access MRI where it may otherwise not be possible. Scanning these patients requires detailed pre-scan planning, close coordination with your treating specialist, and strict adherence to device-specific safety protocols, given that each implant type and model can have different requirements.
If you have an implant and have been told an MRI isn’t an option, or you’re unsure whether MRI is suitable for you, we encourage you to speak with the Jones Radiology implant team. We assess implant safety on a case-by-case basis, with careful planning and consultation with your treating team.
Good news – some MRI scans are now available to book online. Our online booking system lets you choose a time that suits your schedule, for most scans.*
Prefer to talk to someone? Call our contact centre on 1800 375 663 – our team can answer any MRI safety questions and help with your booking. Or pop into a clinic near you and chat with our friendly staff.
