For Patients

In most cases, yes. A referral from your GP or specialist is required for all MRI, CT, ultrasound, X-ray and diagnostic procedure appointments at MBR Health. A referral ensures the correct examination is performed for your clinical needs and allows your results to be communicated directly to your treating clinician.

Some services do not require a referral — including DEXA body composition or MRI Brain or Liver Quantification studies. Please contact our friendly bookings team if you are unsure whether a referral is required for your specific examination and we will be happy to assist.

Yes — your referral is yours to take anywhere. If you have been referred for imaging by your GP or specialist, you are not required to attend the facility named or printed on your referral. You are free to choose where your imaging is performed and are welcome to bring your referral to MBR Health regardless of which practice, hospital or imaging provider is named on the referral form.

We accept referrals in all formats including handwritten, printed and electronic referrals from all registered medical practitioners. If you have any questions about your referral or would like to book an appointment, please contact our friendly bookings team who will be happy to assist.

MBR Health is a mixed billing clinic. Medicare coverage depends on the type of examination, your individual Medicare eligibility and the clinical indication for your scan.

• Spectral CT and X-ray — many examinations are bulk billed for eligible Medicare cardholders with a valid referral
• Ultrasound — a Medicare rebate applies for eligible examinations with an out-of-pocket fee payable
• MRI — Private cost paid by patient. To understand why MRI at MBR Health is privately billed, please read our article: Understanding MRI and Medicare Rebates

Our team will always confirm your out-of-pocket costs clearly before your appointment. Please contact our bookings team to discuss the costs associated with your specific examination prior to booking.

Claustrophobia and scan anxiety are common concerns and our team is experienced in supporting patients through their examination comfortably. Please let us know when booking so we can take extra care to prepare you for your visit.

Our in-scanner audio-visual platform allows you to watch a movie or your favourite TV show throughout your examination, which many patients find significantly reduces anxiety. For patients with more significant claustrophobia, GP-prescribed mild oral sedation may be appropriate — please speak with your GP prior to your appointment and note that a support person will be required to accompany you home if sedation is taken.

Most reports are available within 48 to 72 hours and sent directly to your referring doctor. Clinically urgent scans are prioritised for reporting. Some complex or subspecialty studies, such as Whole Body MRI ™ or cardiac studies, may take longer — please allow up to 5 to 7 business days for more detailed examinations. Some scans may be eligible for elective expedited reporting for a small fee, please speak to our team before or after your scan to learn more.

Your report and images will also be accessible through the MBR Health patient portal once finalised. If you require your results sooner, please let our team know at the time of booking and we will do our best to accommodate your request.

MBR Health (previously Mermaid Beach Radiology) is located at 2469 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach QLD — on the corner of Ocean Street and the Gold Coast Highway. Free on-site parking is available at the rear of the building, accessed via 46 Ocean Street. Our clinic is easily accessible by public transport along the Gold Coast Highway corridor. Please contact our friendly team for specific directions or any questions about finding us.