Implanted Cardiac Device Patients requiring MRI

What is an MRI scan?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a method of imaging which utilises a strong magnetic field to generate images of any region of the human body. MRI does not use ionising radiation (xrays).

Assessing Eligibility for MRI

At Benson Radiology, your safety is our highest priority. If you have an implanted cardiac device (such as a pacemaker or defibrillator), we follow strict safety protocols to determine whether an MRI can be safely performed.

Some cardiac devices are classified as MRI-Conditional, meaning they can safely be scanned under specific conditions outlined by the device manufacturer. These conditions vary depending on the make and model of the device.

However, not all devices are compatible with MRI. In extreme cases, there is a risk of harm to the individual, for non-compatible devices.

To assess your eligibility, we require a copy of your implant identification card.

If you do not have this card, you will be asked to complete a Consent to Release Medical Information form so we can obtain the necessary surgical and device information.

In some cases, we may also need to contact the device manufacturer directly to obtain additional technical information.

Cardiologist Involvement

Once eligibility is confirmed, your cardiologist must complete an MRI Clinician Checklist. This form confirms your device specifications and settings. Additionally, this allows the cardiologist to consent to temporarily switch your device into MRI mode during the examination.

Process:

1. Benson Radiology will send the required checklist directly to your cardiologist’s rooms.
2. If the completed form is returned within one week:
   • You will receive an SMS confirmation that we have received it.
3. If the form is not returned within one week:
   • You will receive an SMS notification
   • We will email you a copy of the form, and it becomes your responsibility to follow up with your cardiologist.

An MRI appointment cannot be booked until Benson Radiology has received the completed checklist form.

Forms can be returned via email to:

modalityexpert@bensonradiology.com.au

Booking Your Appointment

Once we have received and reviewed your completed checklist, you will receive an SMS confirmation from us.

Please be aware that appointments are not scheduled immediately upon receiving your completed cardiologist checklist. Instead, our team will contact only when a suitable appointment time becomes available in the coming one-three months.

Due to high demand and limited number of monthly sessions, there may be a waiting period of several weeks or even a few months before an appointment can be offered. In addition, your devices manufacturer’s specific scanning requirements may also influence how soon your appointment can be scheduled.

Due to specific requirements required to safely perform your MRI examination, your examination will be performed at one of the following clinics:

• Ashford Specialist Centre
• Modbury Hospital

Billing Policy

Benson Radiology requires full payment of your account on the day of your appointment. Due to the complexity involved in performing an MRI for patients with a cardiac device, we are unable to Bulk Bill your examination to Medicare, even if you hold a concession card.

MRI Examination Fee

You will be charged a fee for you MRI examination. MRI is tightly regulated by Medicare; and only certain types of examinations qualify for a Medicare rebate, while others do not. If your examination does attract a rebate, a portion of your payment may be reimbursed to you by Medicare after your appointment. If it does not, the full amount will be out-of-pocket.

Cardiac Device Technician Fee

An additional fee may apply for the services of a Cardiac Device Technician, who is an external provider responsible for the safe management of your cardiac device before and after the examination. This fee is not covered by Medicare and is not eligible for a rebate.

When your appointment is scheduled, our team will discuss all applicable fees, including any out-of-pocket costs.

Benson Radiology will keep you informed every step of the way via SMS notifications, including:

• When forms are sent or received
• When we require actions from yourself
• When we are awaiting an appointment time to become available

We appreciate your patience and understanding as we prioritise your safety and work closely with our specialist team to coordinate your care.

If you have any questions at any stage, please contact our team:

(08) 8113 6700