MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) creates detailed images of organs and other structures inside the body using a powerful magnet and radio waves. Patients undergoing this test must remove metal items and inform the technician of any internal devices (e.g. pacemaker) that contain metal. MRI is used to diagnose various medical conditions, from neurological disorders to musculoskeletal injuries and heart diseases. In this article, we look at at the conditions that may require an MRI, MRI Scan Singapore cost and cost comparison in Malaysia, as well as practical tips for medical tourists.
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When Do You Need An MRI?
MRIs are widely used across medical specialities to investigate and diagnose various health conditions, including:
Neurology
- Brain tumours
- Stroke and cerebrovascular diseases
- Multiple sclerosis and other demyelinating diseases
- Epilepsy and neurological disorders
Oncology
- Prostate cancer
- Liver and gastrointestinal tumours
- Breast cancer (diagnostic imaging for staging and monitoring)
Musculoskeletal Imaging
- Soft tissue injuries
- Bone marrow abnormalities
- Joint and ligament injuries, especially in sports therapy
Cardiology
- Heart structure and function evaluation
- Imaging of myocardial perfusion and damage after a heart attack
- Non-invasive vascular imaging (MR angiography)
Gastrointestinal (GI)
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Liver, pancreas, and bile duct lesions
Tests That May Be Combined With MRI Scan
Other imaging tests such as PET scans may be combined with MRI scans to provide more clarity and accurate diagnoses.
MRI Scans For Medical Tourists: Key Information
In Singapore, a medical referral letter from a doctor is required before undergoing an MRI. Private medical centres often offer one-stop services to assist patients without a prior consultation.
For non-Singapore citizens and PRs, it is recommended to seek services from private healthcare providers, as public hospitals generally prioritise citizens and PRs, making it less likely for non-residents to receive prompt attention.
MRI Scan Cost In Singapore And Malaysia
The cost of MRI scans varies based on body parts, healthcare providers, and locations. Below is a comparison between Singapore and Malaysia (Johor Bahru).
| Body Part/s | MRI Scan Cost in Singapore | MRI Scan Cost in Malaysia (Johor Bahru) |
| Ankle, Foot, Knee, Hand, Shoulder, Cervical Spine, Lumbar Spine (per side) MRI Scan | S$900 to S$1,000 each | RM 1,500 to RM 2,000 each |
| Head MRI Scan | From S$1,000 | From RM 1,500 |
| Chest MRI Scan | From S$900 | From RM1,500 |
| Cardiac MRI Scan | From S$2,000 | From RM2,000 |
| Full Body | From S$4000 | From RM3,500 |
Comparison: MRI Scan Cost in Malaysia
Medical imaging services in Malaysia will be cheaper compared to Singapore. For instance, according to Statista, the average MRI scan cost in Malaysia is around RM 1,200 (in 2023). According to other complications, the cost may go as high as RM 2,500. MRI scan cost in Malaysia will similarly vary depending on the nature of the scan required and the choice of healthcare provider.
Waiting Times In Singapore: What To Expect
- Public Sector – MRI appointments may take 3 weeks to 3 months.Private Sector: Patients can often secure appointments within a day after consultation, significantly reducing waiting times.
- Private Sector – Patients can often secure appointments within a day after consultation, significantly reducing waiting times.
MRI Facilities In Singapore And Malaysia You May Consider
Singapore (Private Sector)
1. AsiaMedic
Launched in 1997, AsiaMedic is a leading healthcare provider in Singapore. They have over 25 years of experience in providing premier medical services in advanced diagnostic imaging, clinical services and preventive care.
2. LifeScan Medical Centre
Lifescan Medical Centre is located in Orchard Road and Novena, Singapore. The centre specialises in delivering personalised, executive screening and wellness programmes for local and international patients.
3. Advanced Medical Imaging / Asia HealthPartners
The Advanced Medicine Imaging (AMI) centre in Biopolis is a modern medical centre for health and wellness needs that offers executive health screening and imaging services such as ultrasound, mammogram, CT, MRI, and PET.
Malaysia (Johor Bahru)
1. KPJ Johor Specialist Hospital
KPJ Johor Specialist Hospital is the first private hospital in Johor under the management of KPJ Healthcare Berhad Group of Hospitals, the largest private healthcare network in Malaysia.
2. KPJ Bandar Dato’ Onn Hospital
KPJ Bandar Dato’ Onn Hospital is the 26th hospital under KPJ Healthcare Berhad, and is well-equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, staffed by a highly-trained team committed to delivering top-notch healthcare services.
3. Regency Specialist Hospital
Regency Specialist Hospital is a multi-disciplinary and fast-growing private hospital in Malaysia with 218 bed capacity serving around 200,000 patients annually.
4. Kensington Green Specialist Centre
Kensington Green Specialist Centre is a world-class mutidisciplinary private hospital at the heart of Iskandar Puteri, Johor, Malaysia, providing complex and acute care across all medical specialties for patients.
Contact Us For A MRI Scan Appointment
Health365 in partnership with trusted medical providers in Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand offers health screening packages and diagnostic imaging services that you may consider.
To express your interest in a MRI scan or other screening services, send us a message via the contact button below or contact us through our page.
Related Articles On Health365
- What Is Medical Imaging – X-Ray, Ultrasound, CT, MRI & PET Scan?
- Health365 Guide To Medical Imaging: X-Ray, Ultrasound, CT Scan, MRI Scan And PET Scan
- Health365 Guide: 1.5T Versus 3T MRI Scan – What Are The Differences And Which Should You Choose?
- MRI in Singapore – What Is It, And How Is It Different From a CT Scan?
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This article is informative only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.