Book a neck (cervical spine) MRI
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A neck (cervical spine) MRI shows the discs, spinal cord and nerves in the neck. Learn when it's requested, how to prepare and when a GP referral can attract a Medicare rebate.
Also called: neck MRI, MRI neck, cervical MRI, MRI cervical spine, C-spine MRI
Find a clinic for your neck (cervical spine) MRI
43 clinics offer bulk billing for MRI — eligibility varies
Where to get a neck (cervical spine) MRI
44 clinics across Melbourne and Victoria on Radly offer MRI.
Clinics for a neck (cervical spine) MRI on Radly
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What is a neck (cervical spine) MRI?
A cervical spine MRI takes detailed pictures of the seven vertebrae in your neck, the discs between them, the spinal cord and the nerve roots running to your arms. It shows disc prolapses, nerve compression and ligament injuries that X-ray and CT may miss.
You lie on your back with your head and neck in a padded coil. Keeping still is important, so staff will make you as comfortable as possible. Contrast is only used for particular questions.
Why your doctor might request a neck (cervical spine) MRI
- Arm pain, tingling or weakness suggesting a pinched nerve (cervical radiculopathy)
- Neck injury where your doctor needs to check ligaments or the spinal cord
- Ongoing neck pain with neurological symptoms
- Suspected narrowing of the spinal canal
- Planning before neck surgery
Neck (cervical spine) MRI: preparation, referral & Medicare
Preparing for your neck (cervical spine) MRI
- Complete the metal safety questionnaire and mention any implants
- Remove necklaces, earrings, hairclips and hearing aids
- Tell the clinic if you're claustrophobic, as your head is inside the scanner
- Take your usual pain relief if lying flat is uncomfortable
How long it takes: About 20–40 minutes
Referral, Medicare & bulk billing
GPs can request a Medicare-eligible cervical spine MRI for certain indications in adults, such as cervical radiculopathy or neck trauma meeting specific criteria, and for a wider range of reasons in children under 16. Specialists can request it more broadly. The scan must be done on a Medicare-eligible machine. Otherwise it is private. The clinic will confirm whether your referral is Medicare-eligible. Booking through Radly sends a request, and the clinic confirms the time with you.
How it works
Get your referral
Most scans need a referral from your GP, specialist, or other health practitioner.
Compare clinics
Find clinics near you for your neck (cervical spine) MRI and compare bulk billing, reviews, and location.
Send your request
Share your preferred timing and send the clinic your details and referral when available.
Clinic confirms
The clinic reviews your request and confirms your appointment and any preparation needed.
If the clinic hasn’t acknowledged your request after 24 hours, Radly will follow up. We check in by SMS during daytime hours where SMS is available and you haven’t opted out. Reply N if you haven’t been contacted and our team will follow up. Acknowledgment does not mean an appointment is booked.
Neck (cervical spine) MRI FAQs
Can a GP refer me for a neck MRI under Medicare?
Yes, for certain indications such as arm nerve pain from the neck or neck trauma that meets specific criteria. Other reasons may be private. The clinic will confirm.
Will my head be inside the MRI machine?
Yes, your head and neck sit in the centre of the scanner. If you're anxious about enclosed spaces, let the clinic know so they can support you.
How long does a neck MRI take?
Usually 20–40 minutes in the scanner. Allow extra time for paperwork and changing.
How do I book a neck (cervical spine) MRI online?
Choose a clinic on Radly, select MRI as your scan, add your preferred timing and attach your referral, then send your booking request. The clinic contacts you to confirm the appointment and any preparation.
How soon can I get a neck (cervical spine) MRI?
Appointments for MRI are usually 3 days to 2 weeks, depending on the clinic and the exam. You can send a request on Radly at any time, and the clinic replies with its next available time.
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