Good preparation helps MBR Health perform the safest and most useful examination or procedure. Instructions differ between MRI, CT, ultrasound, DEXA and image-guided procedures.
Referral and protocol review
MBR Health should receive your referral before the appointment. The referral question, relevant medical history and previous relevant imaging reports allow the examination to be protocolled in advance. If important information is missing, the clinic may need to contact you or the referrer, or reschedule the examination.
What to bring
- Your referral if it has not already been received.
- Relevant previous reports, especially from another provider.
- Implant cards, device details or operative information.
- A current medication list and allergy information.
- Medicare or identification details required by the clinic.
- Any preparation instructions supplied at booking.
Medications and medical conditions
Tell the clinic about anticoagulants, aspirin, diabetes medication, kidney disease, thyroid disease, allergies, previous contrast reactions, pregnancy or possible pregnancy, breastfeeding, infection and immune-suppressing treatment. Do not stop prescribed medication unless instructed by your treating clinician.
Fasting, hydration and bladder preparation
Some examinations require fasting, hydration, a full bladder or bowel preparation; others do not. Follow the instructions for your specific appointment rather than generic online advice. Contact the clinic before the appointment if the instructions are unclear.
Clothing, jewellery and devices
Wear comfortable clothing without metal when practical. Patients may be asked to change into a gown and remove jewellery, watches, phones, cards, hearing aids, hair accessories, removable dental appliances, body piercings and wearable devices.
Transport and support
Most diagnostic scans do not prevent driving. However, some procedures, pain injections or prescribed sedative or anti-anxiety medication require a responsible adult to drive you home. Confirm this when booking.
Arrival time
Arrive at the time stated in your booking instructions. Safety screening, cannulation, consent or preparation may be required before the scan itself and if adequate time is not allowed you may compromise your slot on the scanner. Advanced protocols can take longer than routine examinations.
Related Patient Guides
- PG0001 – Welcome to MBR Health: Advanced Medical Imaging and Regenerative Medicine
- PG0002 – How to Choose the Right Imaging Test
- PG0003 – Why Image Quality Matters in Medical Imaging
- PG0004 – What Happens After My Scan? Understanding Reports, Results and Follow-up
- PG0005 – Incidental Findings: What They Are and Why They Matter
- PG0006 – Preparing for Your Appointment at MBR Health
Frequently Asked Questions
For other FAQs please visit our FAQs page
Can I eat before my scan?
It depends on the examination. Follow the instructions provided for your booking.
Should I bring previous reports even if they are old?
Yes, when relevant. Prior reports can describe whether a finding is new, stable or changing and may prevent unnecessary repeat tests.
What if I am unwell on the day?
Contact the clinic. Fever, infection, vomiting, inability to lie still or changes in medication may affect whether the examination or procedure should proceed.
| Important: Preparation instructions on your booking confirmation take priority over this general guide. |
PATIENT GUIDE • PG-0006 [Patient information: how to prepare for MRI or CT scan]
