Cost of MRI Scan in Kenya (January 2024)

Magnetic Resonance Imaging Scan, also known as the MRI Scan, is one of the advanced human body scanning technologies in the medical world in recent times. The scan is not only appreciated because of its explicit and detailed imaging of the human body, but it is also considered to be more detailed than other medical scans like X-ray, CT scan, and many other similar kinds of scans.

The importance of MRI scans has brown in the Kenyan medical sector today. With this, there is a need to take a look at some details about the scan, including the amount it costs, the uses, possible side effects, and other core details.

Cost of MRI Scan in Kenya

Cost of MRI Scan in Kenya Today

There are different types of MR scans and they vary in prices. There is generally no fixed amount for how much MRI scans go for in the country. Many factors contribute to the various prices the scan goes for. For instance, MRI scans are relatively cheaper in government-owned hospitals and laboratories.

Also, the various kinds of MRI scans require various procedures, which means they vary in cost. Unlike other kinds of scans like X-ray and CT Scans, there are only a few clinics, laboratories, and hospitals that have MRI equipment, which makes the procedure not readily accessible. The cost of MRI scan can also vary per location. All these affect the prices the scan goes for.

With all these points already highlighted, an MRI scan in Kenya costs between KES 32, 000 – KES 150, 000, depending on the type of MRI scan, the hospital or clinic you are looking to take the scan, and many other factors. It should be noted that the MRI scan and other similar scans are more expensive in private hospitals, laboratories, and clinics.

The following are the breakdown of the national average of the cost of an MRI by procedure

  • General MRI == from KES 50,000
  • Brain MRI == from KES 62,000
  • Neck MRI == from KES 59,000
  • Chest MRI == from KES 55,000
  • Head MRI == from KES 56,000

LAST UPDATED: August 20, 2022

What is MRI Scan Used For?

MRI scan is among the highly rated and very useful technologies in the medical space today. It has been a revelation since its introduction into the medical world. Generally, the MRI scan is used to accurately detect various kinds of diseases in the human body. The test is usually recommended after many other tests and scan procedures did not yield a reliable result to state what exactly is wrong with the patient. A typical example is a patient with a head injury. Different things can be associated with head injuries. If not properly diagnosed, trauma to the brain might just be seen as a mere swelling or bleeding. MRI scan makes the diagnosis easier as it states the exact problem. This is one of the main reasons MRI scans are used to diagnose irregularities, including stroke, brain tumor, spine irritation, and many other related central nervous system issues.

MRI scan is not only used to scan brain anatomy, but they are also used to assess the condition of the spinal cord after trauma. The scan also comes to play when medical personnel is suspecting issues related to the vertebrae or intervertebral discs of the spine. In more technical medical space, the MRI scan is also used to assess the structure and condition of the heart and aorta, in cases where aneurysms or tears are suspected. It is essential to note that while the MRI scan is essentially useful and important, they are not the first step to take in many cases. Usually, they are seen as follow-up procedures after other scans have been done.

MRI image is well-detained with clear resolution. It spots even the smallest of changes of structures in the human body. MRI scanners come in different types and sometimes vary in content. Regardless, they all produce very detailed images and overall results. 

Potential Risks and Possible Side Effects Associated with MRI Scan 

While the importance of MR scan is unquestionable, one of the questions that have lingered through people’s minds over the years is whether there are potential risks or possible side effects associated with MRI scan. The MRI scan is a painless radiology technique that has the plus of evading x-ray radiation exposure. According to various medical personnel, there are no identified side effects related to MRI scan procedures. The core advantage of this procedure is its high accuracy and precision in sensing structural anomalies of vital parts of the body.

With this already noted, it is very important for patients preparing for MRI scans to notify their medical practitioners if they have known anomalies in their bodies, like metallic materials. Metallic materials like metallic bone plates, chips, surgical chips, and other similar materials can significantly affect the images produced by the MRI scanner. This could significantly affect the result of the scan and lead to the medical practitioner coming to a wrong conclusion. Also, patients that have metallic implants or chips around or inside their eyeballs should discuss with their medical personnel and disclose this. These kinds of patients might not be able to undergo the MRI scan because there is a possibility of the magnet in the scanner shifting the magnetic implant or chip in the eyes. This could further do damages to the patient. The same goes to patients that wear artificial heart valve, chemotherapy or other metallic equipment like a metallic ear. Patients in this category need to notify their medical practitioner before the MRI scan procedure is implemented.

Asides from all the above-mentioned precautions, there are no notable potential risks or side effects relating to MRI scan procedures.

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