If you need an MRI and are wondering, “where’s the best diagnostic testing center near me?” please do some research before selecting a location. You have options regarding location, convenience, professional staffing, and technology. The following are tips to assist you in choosing the MRI center with the right diagnostic services for you.
What Is an MRI?
MRI is an abbreviation for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Ordered by your primary care physician and performed at an in-hospital or stand-alone radiology center, an MRI is a medical test that combines radio waves and a strong magnetic field to produce images of various body parts, including the:
- Heart
- Blood vessels
- Brain
- Kidneys
- Liver
- Spleen
- Ovaries
- Testicles
- Prostate
- Bones, ligaments, tendons, and other hard and soft tissues
- Breasts
Because of its low radiation and ability to produce exceptionally clear images, MRI screening is a frequent physician choice to detect a wide range of structural and disease-related health issues. Examples of conditions often diagnosed using MRIs are aneurysms, brain injuries, tumors, blood vessel blockages, and the size and functionality of the chambers of the heart.
At Starling Diagnostics, highly trained technicians perform our MRIs. You may or may not need contrast dye for image clarity, and you will be required to lie still for the duration of the test. Taking anywhere from minutes to a full hour to complete, an MRI produces no physical side effects, although some individuals experience feelings of claustrophobia as they lie within the machine.
How Can I Select the MRI Center Right for Me?
Please consider the following factors when deciding where to receive your MRI or other diagnostic imaging.
Convenience
In the Bronx, NY area, choose a diagnostic imaging center convenient to your home, place of work, or school. Typically, stand-alone imaging centers, such as Starling Diagnostics, are located within the heart of the communities they serve.
On-site parking and easily accessible entrances are must-haves, and you should have the choice of many appointment times. Unlike hospitals, dedicated imaging centers offer only diagnostic services, making them more personal for the patient and easier to navigate, too.
Care
Before, during, and after your test, you should receive respectful, friendly, and patient-centered care. Your privacy should be fully respected, and you should be assisted with any ambulation and mobility issues you may have.
Technicians should be fully trained and credentialed in the tests they perform. You should have the opportunity to ask questions before your test to address any concerns you may have. Expect to be positioned comfortably for your MRI. You should be able to communicate with your technician by microphone during your test.
Technology
Your MRI center should have the latest and most technologically advanced imaging equipment. Starling Diagnostics features 3T MRI machines, which take precise images of bones, breasts, the heart, and other structures precisely and quickly. The proper equipment means less time in the scanner and better results for you. Plus, excellent MRI machines should be as comfortable as possible for patients of all sizes, body types, and ages.
Expertise
Find out if the radiologist who will read and interpret your MRI results is board-certified and how much experience they have. Also, these expert doctors should do what’s called peer review–that is, they ask colleagues to double-check their results periodically to ensure quality.
Additionally, find out if the technicians and other support staff take continuing education courses. Up-to-date skills ensure accurate results.
Excellent MRI Screenings in Bronx, NY
When you are a patient undergoing Magnetic Resonance Imaging, look for the qualities described above at the MRI centers you are considering. At Starling Diagnostics, we invite you to explore our center, as well as our friendly, highly-trained radiologists and staff. Health screenings are important, and we strive to deliver results you and your physician can trust.
To arrange an appointment, please call our Bronx office at (718) 319-1610, or use our request an appointment form. We look forward to serving you.
