Where can I have an X-Ray, MRI, CT, Ultrasound Scan?
Even small clinics usually have an X-ray machine, and some clinics also offer ultrasound examinations.
MRI and CT scans are generally available at larger hospitals or specialized medical imaging centers. If your doctor thinks you need one of these tests, you will usually see your doctor first, and they will provide a referral or test order.
You do not necessarily need to visit a hospital that has an MRI or CT scanner. Many clinics have arrangements with nearby imaging centers, so your doctor can arrange the scan for you. You can then have the examination at the imaging center without needing to visit a large hospital.
We often receive inquiries from people who would like to have an MRI or CT scan without seeing a doctor first. However, in Japan, you generally need a doctor’s consultation and referral before having these scans.
This is because the imaging technician needs specific instructions from a doctor about what area to examine and what type of scan is required.
After the scan, a radiologist reviews the images and prepares a report for the referring doctor. Your doctor can then explain the results to you and discuss what they mean in relation to your symptoms and overall health. Radiology reports can be highly technical, so your doctor’s explanation is important for understanding the results fully.
Before an MRI, be sure to tell your doctor if you have any metal in your body, a pacemaker, a breast implant, or tattoos. If you are uncomfortable in enclosed spaces or have claustrophobia, let your doctor know. An open MRI may be an option in some cases.
How long does it take?
An X-Ray is quick, for example it only takes about 5-10 minutes for a chest X-ray. An ultrasound is longer, it depends on the part of the body but from 20 minutes to 40 minutes in general. An MRI takes long, the whole process including preparation can be 60 minutes. A CT is quicker than an MRI.
You can generally have the X-Ray test done on the same day but an ultrasound, An MRI and a CT often requires an appointment on a different day. Abdominal MRI or ultrasound needs fasting for 4-6 hours.
How much is it?
Japanese insurance covers 70% of an X-Ray, an MRI, a CT, an ultrasound Scan when they are needed to treat medical conditions. Meanwhile it does not cover the scans for screening purpose, like for an annual physical examination or a Ningen Dock.
Contact us if you need those imaging tests. We can help find a hospital for you.
We asked an expert about the differences of Xray and MRI. You can read the articule from the link below.
Can I have an MRI/CT while I am visiting Japan?
If a local doctor determines that an MRI or CT scan is appropriate and there is an available appointment, you should generally be able to have the scan.
Please be aware that the scan and radiology report will normally be provided in Japanese. You may be able to use a translation app or professional translator to translate the report, but the accuracy of machine translation cannot be guaranteed.
The radiologist’s report usually takes about one week to be completed. You will normally need to return to the doctor who ordered the scan to receive and discuss your results. Japanese hospitals and medical facilities generally do not send personal medical information, such as scan reports, by email.
If you have a limited amount of time in Japan, it can therefore be difficult to arrange the consultation, scan, report, and follow-up appointment within a short stay.