The importance of MRIs
Posted on: 02/17/2009
ABC News ran a report on Jan. 25, 2009 that discussed how patients can avoid radiology misdiagnosis. The message of the report was how it is very important for patients to get a speedy and accurate diagnosis and treatment for their condition. KCIC has some tips on how patients can make sure that happens:
1. Make sure your exam is read by a radiologist who specializes in that type of exam, rather than one who reads a little bit of everything. KCIC offers patients imaging by specialists which means the patient’s exam will be read by a doctor that has specialty training and knows exactly how to read the exam.
2. As a patient, make sure to ask for a closed or high-field strength magnet. The strength of the magnet is very important and the higher the magnet strength, the higher quality of the image which leads to more accurate diagnosis. The difference between a low-field strength magnet and a high-field strength magnet is like watching an old black and white TV when you could be watching an HDTV. KCIC offers a high-strength field magnet that is a short wide-opening.
3. Know your own medical history and find out what to expect before/during/after the exam. Also, make sure to follow up with your physician after your exam if you have not been notified of the results. KCIC provides fast turn-around time on all exams so that your physician and radiologist can determine your diagnosis and treatment plan.
4. Make sure an imaging center you select is ACR (American College of Radiology) accredited. The ACR provides quality control for exams conducted and ensures the equipment is safe for the patient. KCIC is accredited by the ACR.
5. Trust yourself and your health. If you feel something with your health is not right, make sure to ask tough questions. As a patient, you have the right to choose where you have your imaging done and the right to have the high quality exam that you deserve.
You may review this report by following this link http://abcnews.go.com/search?searchtext=MRI%20scanners&type and clicking on “What you should know about MRIs”.
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