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A knee MRI shows ligaments, cartilage, menisci and bone in detail without radiation. Find out what it shows, how to prepare and when a GP referral is Medicare-eligible.
Also called: MRI knee, knee MRI scan, MRI for knee injury, ACL MRI, meniscus MRI
Find a clinic for your knee MRI
43 clinics offer bulk billing for MRI — eligibility varies
Where to get a knee MRI
44 clinics across Melbourne and Victoria on Radly offer MRI.
Clinics for a knee MRI on Radly
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What is a knee MRI?
A knee MRI gives a detailed look at the soft tissues inside and around the knee, including the cruciate ligaments (such as the ACL), the menisci, cartilage, tendons and bone marrow. Many of these injuries don't show on an X-ray.
Only your leg goes into the centre of the scanner, so most people find a knee MRI easier than a brain or spine scan. Your knee rests in a padded coil and you need to keep it still while the pictures are taken. Contrast is rarely needed.
Why your doctor might request a knee MRI
- A twisting injury with suspected ACL or meniscus tear
- Knee locking, catching or giving way
- Persistent knee pain or swelling after an injury
- Suspected cartilage damage or bone bruising
- Planning before knee surgery
Knee MRI: preparation, referral & Medicare
Preparing for your knee MRI
- Complete the metal safety questionnaire and mention any implants or previous surgery
- Wear comfortable clothing without metal zips, or change into a gown
- Remove jewellery, watches and anything in your pockets
- Bring previous knee X-rays or scans if you have them
How long it takes: About 20–30 minutes
Referral, Medicare & bulk billing
GPs can request a Medicare-eligible knee MRI for certain indications — in adults, this is generally after an acute knee injury where specific clinical criteria are met — and for a wider range of reasons in children under 16. Orthopaedic surgeons, sports physicians and other specialists can request knee MRI more broadly. The scan must also 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 knee 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.
Knee MRI FAQs
Can a GP refer me for a knee MRI?
Yes. For adults, a GP referral attracts a Medicare rebate for certain indications, usually a recent acute knee injury that meets specific criteria. Long-standing knee pain or arthritis generally doesn't qualify on a GP referral. The clinic will confirm.
Will a knee MRI show a torn ACL or meniscus?
Yes. MRI is the standard test for ligament and meniscus tears, as well as cartilage damage and bone bruising.
Do I need an X-ray before a knee MRI?
Often your doctor will request an X-ray first to check the bones and joint space, but it isn't always required. Follow your referrer's advice.
How do I book a knee 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 knee 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.
Related scans
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