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A hip MRI shows the joint, cartilage, labrum, tendons and bone in detail without radiation. Learn what it shows, how to prepare and how Medicare referrals apply.
Also called: MRI hip, hip MRI scan, labral tear hip MRI, hip MRI arthrogram
Find a clinic for your hip MRI
43 clinics offer bulk billing for MRI — eligibility varies
Where to get a hip MRI
44 clinics across Melbourne and Victoria on Radly offer MRI.
Clinics for a hip MRI on Radly
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What is a hip MRI?
A hip MRI gives a detailed view of the hip joint, including the labrum, cartilage, surrounding tendons and muscles, and the bone marrow. It can show problems such as stress fractures and early changes in the blood supply to the bone that may not appear on X-ray.
You lie on your back with your feet going into the scanner first. A coil rests over your hips. Sometimes an MR arthrogram is requested, where contrast is injected into the joint first to show the labrum more clearly.
Why your doctor might request a hip MRI
- Groin or hip pain not explained by X-ray
- Suspected labral tear or hip impingement
- Suspected stress fracture, particularly in runners
- Tendon problems around the outer hip
- Suspected avascular necrosis (loss of blood supply to bone)
Hip MRI: preparation, referral & Medicare
Preparing for your hip MRI
- Complete the metal safety questionnaire and mention any hip replacement or other implants
- Wear clothing without metal or change into a gown
- Allow extra time if an arthrogram injection is part of the scan
- Bring previous hip X-rays if you have them
How long it takes: About 30–40 minutes, longer with an arthrogram
Referral, Medicare & bulk billing
Adult hip MRI generally needs a specialist referral to attract a Medicare rebate, and must be done on a Medicare-eligible machine. GP-referred hip MRI is usually private for adults, though GPs have broader options for children under 16. 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 hip 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.
Hip MRI FAQs
Can a GP refer me for a hip MRI?
A GP can refer you, but for adults it is generally private. Children under 16 may be eligible on a GP referral for certain indications. The clinic will confirm.
Can I have a hip MRI if I have a hip replacement?
Most modern joint replacements are MRI-safe, but the metal affects the images near it. Tell the clinic so the radiologist can decide on the best test.
Will a hip MRI show a labral tear?
Often yes. An MR arthrogram, with contrast injected into the joint, may be used to show the labrum more clearly.
How do I book a hip 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 hip 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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