Your visit, simplified

What to expect on your visit.

A clear, friendly walkthrough of what to bring, how to prepare, and what happens during your exam at Orange County MRI.

Schedule by Phone Patient Forms

Before your appointment

Once your scan is scheduled, our team will share any prep instructions specific to your exam. In general:

  • Complete the patient questionnaire for your exam from our Forms page and bring it with you
  • Wear comfortable, metal-free clothing if possible
  • Note any allergies, recent surgeries, implants, or medications you're taking
  • If you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or might be pregnant, tell us before scheduling
  • Follow any fasting or contrast-prep instructions exactly as given

What to bring

  • Photo ID — driver's license, state ID, or passport
  • Insurance card (front and back)
  • Physician's order for the imaging exam
  • Completed questionnaire for your exam
  • Current medication list
  • Prior imaging (CD or report) if you have it from another facility

When you arrive

Plan to arrive about 15 minutes before your scheduled time. Our front desk will check you in, verify your insurance, and walk you through any final paperwork. A technologist will then bring you back, review safety questions, and explain the exam step by step before getting started.

If you experience claustrophobia or anxiety, please let us know before the exam — our wide-bore MRI is designed to feel more open, and our team can talk you through what to expect.

During the exam

Times vary by study, but as a general guide:

  • MRI: typically 30-60 minutes; you lie still while the scanner makes loud knocking sounds (we provide ear protection)
  • CT: usually 5-15 minutes; quick, quiet scans, possible breath-hold instructions
  • PET/CT: 90-120 minutes total; includes tracer injection and an uptake wait before imaging
  • F-18 NaF PET Bone Scan: tracer injection, a short uptake period, then a 20-30 minute PET scan — typically 60-90 minutes total

You can usually drive yourself home afterward unless you've received sedation.

After your scan — getting results

Your images are reviewed and interpreted by a board-certified radiologist. The final report is sent directly to your referring physician, typically within 24-48 hours. Your physician's office will share the results with you and discuss next steps.

If you need a copy of your images for a specialist or second opinion, contact us and we can arrange a CD or secure transfer.

Common questions

What should I bring to my appointment?

Photo ID, insurance card, physician order, completed questionnaire, medication list, and any prior imaging records. See the full list above.

Do I need to fast?

It depends on the exam. PET/CT typically requires fasting; some CT exams require it if contrast is used; most MRI and Bone Scan exams don't. Follow the instructions you received when scheduling.

How long will I be at OCMRI?

Most visits run 45-90 minutes including check-in and prep. PET/CT visits are longer because of tracer uptake time. Our F-18 NaF PET bone scan is typically 60-90 minutes — much faster than older Tc-99m bone scans.

Can I drive myself home?

Yes, unless you've received sedation or were told otherwise. Most patients drive themselves to and from the appointment.

When will I get my results?

Your radiologist's report is typically sent to your referring physician within 24-48 hours. Your physician's office will share the results with you.

What if I'm anxious or claustrophobic?

Tell us before your appointment so we can prepare. Our wide-bore MRI is designed to feel more open, and our team is experienced with patients who feel anxious.

Do you accept my insurance?

We accept Medicare, Medi-Cal, and most PPO plans. Coverage and authorization vary by plan and exam — call (714) 957-0317 and we can help verify before your visit.

Call Directions Email Message