A PATIENT’S GUIDE TO VERMONT OPEN MRI

Getting Scheduled

  • In order to start the scheduling process, we will need a signed referral from your provider (MD, DO, DC, ND, PA or NP). Tell your provider about your symptoms and concerns. If your provider believes that it is medically necessary for you to have an MRI, then let them know you’d like to be seen at Vermont Open MRI. In your conversation with the ordering office:

    • Tell them you’d like to come to Vermont Open MRI

    • Ask them to fax the order and your clinical notes to 802-863-9979. 

    • Let them know that we will take care of any prior authorization required by your insurance carrier.

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  • Once we receive your order we will contact your insurance company to obtain your benefits and prior authorization (if required). This can sometimes take between 1-5 business days depending on your insurance.

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  • Once we have everything, we’ll call to get you screened and scheduled.

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  • During our call, we’ll guide you through an extensive MRI safety screener to make sure you are safe to undergo an MRI and receive contrast dye (if required for your exam).

    Please be aware that while most implants and devices are safe, we always need to know what is in or on your body before clearing you for an MRI. For your safety, it is vital you answer each question accurately.

    We do NOT scan patients who have pacemakers, internal defibrillators, or who are pregnant. 

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  • If you’re considered MRI-safe, we’ll find a day/time to get you scheduled. We offer weekend and evening appointments for non-contrast MRIs. All exams that require contrast are typically scheduled Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays, between 7:30 am and 4 pm. We strive to get patients scheduled as soon as possible and we are always happy to add you to a cancellation list if you’re hoping to be seen sooner.

Have questions?
Call us at 802-863-1249 and we’ll talk you through it.

How to Prepare for an MRI: Helpful tips

We’re here to make your MRI experience as smooth and stress-free as possible. Here’s everything you need to know to prepare for your appointment.

On the day of your exam:

Stick to Your Normal Routine

Eat, drink, and take your medications as usual unless you’ve been given specific instructions for certain abdominal or pelvic scans.

Ditch the Metal and DON’T Dress to Impress

Avoid clothing that contains metal elements—zippers, snaps, buttons, bras—and leave your jewelry and watches at home. Coming straight from work? We’ve got a supply of scrubs you can change into and lockers to securely store your belongings if you need them.

Pro Tip: Your shoes need to be off during the scan, so bring a pair of socks to keep your feet cozy!

Feeling nervous?  We understand.

Our clinical staff will put you at ease and coach you through your scan. Anti-anxiety medication can also be a huge help—ask your referring physician to place a prescription at your local pharmacy and take it one hour before you arrive.

Note: if you choose to come medicated, you must have a driver to and from our facility—this is non-negotiable for your safety.

What to Expect When You Arrive

  • You’ll sign a few quick registration forms and review your medical history with our team.

  • Our friendly staff (and possibly our office dog, Wayne) will make sure you’re comfortable and ready to go.

  • If you are having a contrast MRI our nurse will start an IV and thoroughly explain the procedure prior to getting on the scanner. 

  • Most MRIs take 45-60 minutes. Contrast exams can take an additional 30 minutes. This includes check-in and preparation time.

How soon can you expect your results?

Your provider will receive the radiologist’s report within 3-5 business days. We can share images with most healthcare facilities in the region. To learn more about getting your results to your healthcare team, call us at 802-863-1249. 

If you’d like the results emailed to you too just let us know.

Frequently Asked Questions

Not seeing your question or need more information? Please call our friendly staff at 802-863-1249.

  • Where X-rays look at your bones, an MRI looks at your soft tissues. They can help diagnose brain tumors, joint injuries, muscle tears, organ issues, and even cancer staging. Our radiologists have a range of subspecialties, and you can rest easy knowing your scan will be reviewed by the right specialist.

  • The sounds come from electrical currents in the gradient magnets reacting to the main magnetic field. It is very noisy but don’t worry, it’s perfectly normal and means the machine is doing its job. We’ll provide headphones or earplugs, and for most exams, you can even listen to music to stay comfortable.

    *Not all exams can accommodate music. Ask a staff member when scheduling if you can have music during your exam.  

    • Consider asking your doctor about anti-anxiety medication. You MUST have a driver if you take any anti-anxiety/sedatives for your exam.

    • Scheduled on our Open MRI? You can bring a support person—they can even hold your hand during some exams!

    • Knowledge is power! We make every effort to thoroughly explain the procedure and are always happy to answer any remaining questions you may have.

    Most patients are pleasantly surprised by their experience on our scanners!

  • No. MRI uses magnetic fields, not radiation, so there’s no exposure risk.

  • The contrast agent used for MRI studies is called gadolinium and is injected in to your arm. It is a clear fluid, which is injected into a vein in your arm and then excreted by the kidneys through your urine. Gadolinium makes certain tissues, abnormalities or disease processes more clearly visible. Allergic reactions to gadolinium contrast can occur but are extremely rare and generally respond very well to emergency drug treatment. When contrast is used, we always have a registered nurse onsite in the event of a reaction. To learn more about the contrast agent that will be used during your exam, download this guide (PDF).

    If you have any concerns about the use of gadolinium, please discuss these with your referring doctor prior to your exam date.


  • No, we’re an independent facility. However, we can easily share images and reports with most hospitals and providers for your follow-up care.

  • We use your personal health information for treatment, payment, and care improvements. See our Privacy Policy for full details.

  • Click here for a guide (PDF).

    This is a guide to understanding your statement. If you have questions, feel free to reach out at 802-863-1249.