MRI Brain
High-resolution MRI of the brain for headache, stroke, MS, tumor, and post-concussion work-up — read by sub-specialty neuroradiologists.
Find MRI Brain near you
What a mri brain shows
- Acute and subacute ischemic stroke (with diffusion-weighted imaging)
- Brain tumors and metastases
- Multiple sclerosis and other demyelinating disease
- Aneurysms and vascular malformations
- Pituitary, sellar, and posterior fossa lesions
- Cause of new or atypical headache
- Post-traumatic and post-concussion findings
Why your physician orders it
- New, severe, or changing headaches
- Suspected stroke or transient neurologic symptoms
- Seizures of new onset
- Cognitive change, memory loss, or suspected dementia work-up
- Follow-up of a known brain tumor or MS
- Persistent dizziness, vision change, or hearing loss
Contrast notes
Routine brain MRI is acquired without contrast. Gadolinium is added when ordered to evaluate suspected tumor, infection, demyelinating disease (e.g. MS follow-up), or post-treatment surveillance. Renal function is screened before any contrast study and the lowest effective dose is used.
Prep summary
Most patients don't need special prep beyond completing the MRI/CT safety screening and removing metal jewelry. Specific prep (fasting, contrast, medication timing) is confirmed at scheduling.
Read the full MRI prep guideWhat to expect during the exam
Plan for 30–45 minutes at the imaging center. A head coil is positioned around your head and you'll lie still while the scanner acquires 6–10 imaging sequences.
If gadolinium contrast is ordered, an IV is placed and a small dose is administered partway through the study. You'll wear ear protection and can communicate with the technologist throughout.
Results and report turnaround
Every study is interpreted by a board-certified radiologist — most by fellowship-trained sub-specialists in the relevant body system. Preliminary reads are typically available within a few hours, with the signed final report sent to your ordering provider the same business day.
You can also request a copy of the report and the imaging on disk for your own records or for a second opinion.
Cost and insurance
Most major California insurance plans cover medically necessary brain MRI when authorized. Our team verifies your benefits before scheduling and tells you up front what — if anything — you'll owe.
We also accept cash pay, workers' compensation, and personal-injury liens. Self-pay rates are published below so there are no surprises at the front desk.
Why patients choose Precise Imaging for MRI Brain
Sub-specialty Reads
Fellowship-trained neuro, MSK, and body radiologists interpret every study.
Open & Wide-Bore Options
Comfortable choices for claustrophobic, pediatric, or larger patients.
Same-Day Appointments
Most locations offer same- or next-day scheduling, including evenings and weekends.
Every Financial Type
Insurance, cash, workers' comp, and personal injury liens accepted.
Find a mri brain location
Our network covers California from San Diego to Sacramento. Use the finder above to see MRI locations near you, or browse the full directory.
Frequently asked questions
Is a brain MRI safe?
Yes. MRI uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves — no ionizing radiation. We screen for incompatible implants, pacemakers, aneurysm clips, and metallic foreign bodies before every scan.
Will I need contrast for my brain MRI?
Routine brain MRI is non-contrast. Gadolinium is added when your physician is evaluating tumor, infection, demyelinating disease, or post-treatment changes. Your kidney function is screened first when contrast is planned.
How long does a brain MRI take?
Most brain MRIs take 30–45 minutes inside the scanner. Allow about an hour total for check-in, screening, and the exam.
Can I have a brain MRI if I'm claustrophobic?
Yes. Many of our locations offer wide-bore 1.5T scanners and several have true-open MRI. Mild oral sedation can be arranged through your physician for severe claustrophobia.
How quickly will I get the results?
Preliminary reads are typically available within a few hours; the signed final report is sent to your ordering physician the same business day.
How much does a brain MRI cost?
Insured patients usually owe only their plan's copay or coinsurance once we verify benefits. We also offer transparent, discounted self-pay rates — call 800-558-2223 for a quote.
Do I need a referral for a brain MRI?
Most insurance plans require a referral or prior authorization. Our scheduling team can help your physician submit the request and follow it through to approval.