Do I need a requisition for a private MRI?
In most cases, yes. A private MRI is still a medical test, and the radiologist needs to know what to look for. The good news is that a requisition from your Ontario family doctor is accepted by most private clinics in Quebec, Alberta and British Columbia, and by several centres in Buffalo. Here is how it works.
Do private MRI clinics in Canada require a requisition?
Yes, for a diagnostic MRI of a specific body area. Clinics in Quebec, Alberta and B.C. ask for a requisition (sometimes called a referral or order) from a licensed physician or, at many clinics, a nurse practitioner. The one exception is full body screening MRI, which many clinics let you book without a referral.
Will a Quebec or Alberta clinic accept a requisition from my Ontario doctor?
Usually, yes. A requisition from any Canadian-licensed physician is accepted by most private clinics across the country. Ask the clinic to confirm before you travel, and make sure the requisition names the body part, the clinical question and whether contrast is needed.
Do U.S. imaging centres accept a Canadian requisition?
It depends on the centre and the state. Several Buffalo-area centres have Canadian-patient programs and accept an order from an Ontario doctor. Others require an order from a U.S.-licensed provider, and some will arrange a short telehealth visit for a fee. Always ask before booking.
What should the requisition say?
Your full name and date of birth, the exact body part and side (for example, right knee), the reason for the scan, whether contrast is requested, any implants or metal in your body, and your doctor's name, licence number, signature, phone and fax. Clinics fax the report back to that number, so it must be correct.
My doctor won't write a requisition for a private MRI. What can I do?
Ask why. Some doctors are unsure whether it is allowed; it is, as long as the scan is done outside Ontario or is a non-insured screening scan. Explain where you plan to go. If your doctor still declines, a walk-in clinic or a virtual care doctor can assess you and write one, and some private clinics can connect you with a physician for a consultation fee.
Will my Ontario doctor get the results?
Yes, if the clinic has your doctor's fax number or secure email. The radiologist's report is usually sent within a few business days. Ask for your images on a CD or a download link too, so a specialist in Ontario can review them without repeating the scan.
Private MRI clinics, with prices, in one place
Clinics in Quebec, Alberta, B.C. and near the U.S. border, with self-pay prices, requisition rules and booking details.
Get Directory Access - $29Related
- Getting an MRI in Buffalo, step by step
- Should you go to the USA for an MRI?
- Full body MRI in Canada (no requisition)
General information for Ontario residents, not medical, legal or tax advice. Rules and prices change; confirm with the clinic and your doctor.