Whole Body MRI Imaging

The Purpose of Whole Body MRI Screening

Whole Body MRI Screening is $3000

Whole Body Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a radiation-free and noninvasive imaging study that gives an overview of your brain, major organs, muscles, bones, and soft tissues. Using magnetic fields and radiofrequency signals rather than ionizing radiation, it is designed for screening in otherwise healthy individuals.

Whole Body MRI screening empowers you with knowledge, delivering peace of mind through early insight, precision imaging, and a comprehensive view of your health, all in one appointment.

Did you know...

Whole Body MRI is a non-invasive diagnostic tool that provides a high-resolution overview of your brain, major organs, muscles, bones, and soft tissues.

Whole Body MRI Explained

Key Benefits: Whole Body MRI Scans

Important Reminder: Please contact your clinician if you are experiencing symptoms or have ongoing medical concerns.

Book an Appointment

Identify Potential Concerns Before Symptoms Appear

A Safe Screening Option Without Cumulative Radiation Risk

Detailed Imaging Of The Brain, Spine, And Major Organs In One Session

What Whole Body MRI Can Do

Capture high-resolution images of the brain, spine, major organs, and
musculoskeletal systems to help identify potential concerns before symptoms
appear.
Detect many structural abnormalities throughout the body, including masses,
cysts, enlarged organs, and some early tumors.
Identify certain musculoskeletal issues such as large bone lesions or soft tissue
masses.
Provide a radiation-free screening option for individuals seeking a broad
overview of their health.
Give MRI images of areas such as the brain and brain arteries, spine, and major
organs.

What Whole Body MRI Cannot Do

Diagnose every form of cancer or guarantee early cancer detection. Whole body
MRI is not a dedicated cancer screening tool.
Detect or diagnose microscopic disease, very small lesions, or conditions not
well visualized by MRI.
Replace targeted diagnostic imaging when a patient already has symptoms or a
known medical condition.
Replace dedicated diagnostic screening of the colon, prostate or breast (for
example this does not replace exams like colonoscopy or Mammograms)
Provide a complete evaluation for patients with complex medical histories or genetic disorders.
Evaluate issues requiring functional imaging (for example, heart function or lung disease)
See or evaluate lung nodules or assess lung function. Assessment of lung nodules can be performed with CT at CAMIS for an additional fee. Assessment of colonic polyps with CT can be done through Alberta Health Services

Is MRI Whole Body Screening the Right Test For Me?

Whole Body MRI Screening is $3000

Appropriate Candidates:

Whole Body MRI Screening exams are for individuals who want a proactive
general overview of their health.
For adults without symptoms and without significant underlying disease.
Individuals who understand that this is screening study and that further imaging may be required.
For individuals who want peace of mind with a baseline picture of their health.

When MRI Whole Body Screening is Not the Appropriate Test

Whole Body MRI is for screening purposes only. It does not replace dedicated diagnostic imaging, and may not be appropriate in the following situations:

Those with known medical conditions requiring targeted evaluation, such as:
- Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease
- Known malignancies
- Autoimmune conditions needing specific imaging
- Known disorders requiring specialized imaging
Individuals with active symptoms such as neurologic changes, abdominal pain, weight loss, blood in stool or urine, chest pain, etc.
Pregnant patients.
Patients with MRI-incompatible implants or severe claustrophobia.

Preparing For Your Appointment

Before your scan

A full safety screening will be conducted before your exam.
Remove metal objects, jewelry, watches, and all clothing.
Tell us if you have implants, pacemakers, aneurysm clips, or metal in your body.
Let us know if you have a history of claustrophobia.
You will be asked to change into a gown we provide.

Disclaimer

Whole-body MRI is a screening tool intended for people without symptoms or known disease. It does not replace regular medical care, age-appropriate screening tests, or diagnostic imaging ordered by your clinician. Any abnormality found may require follow-up imaging or specialist evaluation. A normal exam does not guarantee the absence of disease. This exam is for screening only. Please contact your clinician if you are experiencing symptoms or have ongoing medical concerns.

Whole Body MRI typically covers from head to upper thigh but does not include the extremities. Dedicated joint imaging can be added to Whole Body Screening MRI for an additional fee.

Common Questions About Whole Body MRI Imaging

What if I am travelling from out of town for my appointment? (Red Deer Only)

We are pleased to offer a preferred hotel rate at the Red Deer Resort & Casino for patients travelling to our Red Deer clinics.

This may be a convenient option if you:

Are travelling from out of town
Have multiple exams scheduled on the same day
Prefer to arrive the day before your appointment
Have an early morning appointment

Please ask our team about these special rates when booking.

Do I need a referral from a physician?

Yes, for all exams, a valid referral (requisition) from a licensed physician or nurse practitioner is required. We cannot perform your service without this referral.

What are the side effects of MRI contrast injection?

While generally safe, side effects from an MRI contrast injection (gadolinium-based contrast agent) can occur, ranging from mild to very rare severe reactions. Common mild side effects may include a temporary cold sensation at the injection site, nausea, or headache. Very rarely, more serious allergic reactions can happen. It is crucial to inform your physician and our technologists about any allergies, kidney problems, or other medical conditions you have before receiving contrast. We encourage you to discuss any concerns you may have prior to your exam.

How can I manage claustrophobia during an MRI Scan?

We understand that claustrophobia can be a significant concern for MRI Exams. If you experience severe claustrophobia, we strongly recommend discussing the possibility of a prescribed sedative medication with your referring physician prior to your appointment. Our highly experienced MRI staff are very adept at working with anxious patients, and many individuals are able to complete their MRI Scan comfortably without medication through our supportive environment and open-bore system. Please inform us of your concerns when booking so we can best prepare for your visit.

What is the price for a private MRI scan?

At CAMIS, private MRI services start at an affordable rate of $650. The exact cost can vary depending on the specific body part being scanned and the complexity of the examination.

You can typically book a private MRI appointment within 1-2 days of contacting us, significantly reducing wait times.

Please remember that a valid requisition form from a physician is still required. After your MRI, you will receive a digital copy of all your images for your records. For a precise quote, please contact our booking office.

What MRI services are offered at CAMIS?

At CAMIS, we offer a comprehensive range of MRI examinations to address various diagnostic needs. This includes most common MRI procedures, as well as specialized scans such as MR Arthrography (for joint imaging).

Currently, we do not perform perfusion studies or dedicated breast MRI examinations.
Please consult with your referring physician to determine the most appropriate MRI for your condition.

What is the weight limit for an MRI?

Our table weight limit is 550lbs, which is 110lbs greater than most MRI systems.

What type of magnet do you use in your MRI?

We use a high field, open bore magnet. High field means it has a magnetic field strength of 1.5 Tesla (higher field strength means better image quality). Open bore means the opening in the magnet is larger, 10 cm larger, than traditional MRI systems, translating into more room and comfort in the magnet.

Can I get a private MRI in Alberta?

Yes, CAMIS proudly offers a private pay option for MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) services, providing faster access to diagnostic imaging. These services are outside of the publicly funded healthcare system. For detailed pricing information, specific scan availability, and to book your private MRI, please call us directly at 403-755-1060 or visit CAMIS Private MRI Services.