EverVita Knowledge Center

Clear Answers About MRI, CT & DXA Scans

Find helpful guidance on scan options, preparation, pricing, results, and what to expect at EverVita.

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MRI Scan

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MRI Eligibility

Are there size or weight limits for the MRI?

EverVita’s wide-bore MRI has a 70-centimeter opening and a maximum table weight of 550 pounds. Safe fit also depends on body dimensions, height, positioning, and any required equipment. Contact EverVita before booking if fit may be a concern so the team can confirm the scan can be completed safely.

Can I have an EverVita MRI if I am pregnant or may be pregnant?

Tell EverVita before your appointment if you are pregnant or may be pregnant. EverVita generally defers elective screening MRI during pregnancy. If MRI is medically necessary, the decision should be made with the physician and radiology team managing that examination.

Can I have an MRI if I have a cochlear implant?

It depends on the type of cochlear implant you have. Before your appointment, we will ask you to provide details about your specific implant so we can verify whether it is MRI-compatible and safe for scanning.Please note that even when an MRI is considered safe, the presence of a cochlear implant may affect image quality, particularly for imaging of the head or surrounding areas.

Can I have an MRI if I have an implantable infusion pump?

It depends on the exact pump and its MRI conditions. Provide the manufacturer, model, and implant card before your appointment. EverVita must verify the device requirements before confirming that the scan can be performed safely.

Can I have an MRI if I have an implanted neurostimulator?

It depends on the exact device and its MRI conditions. Before your appointment, provide the manufacturer, model, implant card, and any instructions for placing the device in MRI mode. EverVita must verify the device requirements before confirming that you can be scanned.

Can I have an MRI if I have an intracranial aneurysm clip?

It depends on the exact clip. Do not enter the MRI room until EverVita has reviewed the manufacturer, model, implant date, and MRI conditions for your device. Bring your implant card or operative documentation so the team can determine whether the scan can be performed safely.

Can I have an MRI if I have an IUD?

Usually, yes, but the exact device should still be disclosed during MRI screening. If available, provide the IUD manufacturer and model so EverVita can confirm its MRI conditions before your scan.

Can I have an MRI if I have a pacemaker?

EverVita does not currently perform whole-body MRI scans for patients with pacemakers. Some MRI-conditional pacemakers can be scanned at facilities with specialized cardiac-device protocols, so ask your cardiologist or an appropriately equipped radiology department about your options.

Can I have an MRI if I have a prosthetic or orthopedic implant?

It depends on the implant. Many modern orthopedic and prosthetic devices can be scanned under specific conditions, but EverVita must review the device information first. The implant may also reduce image quality in nearby tissues. Bring your implant card or manufacturer and model details before your appointment.

Can I have an MRI if I have epilepsy?

Many people with epilepsy can undergo MRI, but EverVita must review your medical history first. Tell the team about your diagnosis, recent seizures, and medications before your appointment so appropriate safety and comfort measures can be planned.

Can I have an MRI if I have fillings, crowns, or gold teeth?

Usually, yes. Most fixed dental work is not affected by the MRI magnetic field, although it can sometimes distort images near the face or brain. Tell EverVita about braces, retainers, removable dental work, or other dental devices during your safety screening.

Can I have an MRI if I have tattoos?

Usually, yes. Most people with tattoos can undergo MRI, but some tattoo pigments may cause warmth or skin irritation. Tell the technologist about your tattoos before the scan and report any warmth or discomfort immediately.

Can I have an MRI if I may have metal fragments in my body?

It depends on the location and type of metal. If you have worked with metal or may have fragments in your body—especially in or near your eyes—tell EverVita before your appointment. The clinical team may need documentation or a screening X-ray before confirming that you can be scanned.

Can I have an MRI with dental implants?

Usually, yes. Many dental implants can be scanned, but you should disclose them during your MRI safety screening and bring any available implant information. Dental hardware may also reduce image quality near the face or brain.

How does EverVita screen patients for MRI safety?

MRI does not use ionizing radiation, but its strong magnetic field requires careful screening. Before your scan, EverVita reviews implants, devices, metal exposure, pregnancy, and other relevant medical history. Provide implant documentation when applicable and tell the team about any change before entering the MRI room.

Is there a minimum age for an EverVita scan?

Yes. EverVita currently serves adults age 18 and older. Eligibility also depends on the selected service and completion of the required safety screening.

MRI Scan

Can an EverVita scan replace a mammogram?

No. EverVita’s whole-body MRI is not a substitute for mammography or other dedicated breast imaging. Continue following the breast-screening plan recommended by your healthcare provider.

Can an EverVita scan replace a recommended targeted screening test?

No. EverVita’s whole-body MRI provides complementary preventive information, but it does not replace mammography, colonoscopy, lung cancer screening, or other physician-recommended tests. Continue following the screening schedule recommended by your healthcare provider.

Can I move during the MRI?

Try to remain still while each imaging sequence is running because movement can blur the images and require a sequence to be repeated. You can communicate with the technologist at any time. If you are uncomfortable or need to move, let the technologist know first.

Can I take a bathroom break during the MRI?

Use the restroom before the scan whenever possible. If you need a break, tell the technologist through the communication system. The scan can be paused when necessary, although repositioning may lengthen the appointment or require some images to be repeated.

Can the EverVita MRI diagnose Alzheimer’s disease?

No. MRI alone cannot diagnose Alzheimer’s disease. Brain MRI may show structural changes and, when included in a selected package, quantitative brain-volume information. A diagnosis requires a clinical evaluation and may involve cognitive testing, laboratory tests, or other specialized studies. Discuss memory or cognitive concerns with your healthcare provider.

Does a 3T MRI always produce a better whole-body scan?

No. Field strength alone does not determine image quality. Both 1.5T and 3T systems are used clinically, and the best choice depends on the anatomy, protocol, coils, software, technologist, and interpreting radiologist. EverVita’s system and protocol are configured for its whole-body MRI examination.

Does MRI use ionizing radiation?

No. MRI creates images with a strong magnetic field and radiofrequency energy rather than ionizing radiation. The magnetic field still requires a detailed safety screening for implants, devices, and metal.

Does the EverVita whole-body MRI require IV contrast?

No. EverVita’s whole-body MRI protocol does not require IV contrast. Other services are different: coronary CT angiography, or CCTA, does require IV contrast. EverVita will review the requirements for your selected package before your appointment.

Do I need a doctor’s referral?

No. A doctor’s referral is not required to book EverVita’s preventive screening services in Texas. You will still complete a medical and safety review so the team can confirm that the selected services are appropriate for you.

Do I still need a colonoscopy after an EverVita scan?

Yes. An EverVita scan does not replace colonoscopy or other guideline-recommended colorectal cancer screening. Continue following the screening schedule recommended by your healthcare provider.

How long does the whole-body MRI take?

The whole-body MRI typically takes approximately 35–55 minutes. Your complete appointment may be longer if your package includes laboratory testing, CT, DXA, check-in, or other services. EverVita will confirm the expected appointment duration when your visit is scheduled.

Is EverVita’s MRI open, standing, or wide-bore?

EverVita uses a GE HealthCare wide-bore MRI with a 70-centimeter opening. It is a cylindrical system—not an open-sided or standing MRI. The wider opening provides more room than a traditional narrow-bore scanner.

Is the EverVita whole-body MRI non-invasive?

Yes. The whole-body MRI does not involve an incision or IV contrast. Other services are different: laboratory testing involves a blood draw, and coronary CT angiography requires IV contrast. EverVita will review the requirements for your selected package before your appointment.

What can a whole-body MRI show—and what can it not rule out?

EverVita’s whole-body MRI surveys the head, neck, spine, abdomen, and pelvis for abnormalities involving organs, soft tissues, and major body systems. It may identify unexpected findings, but it cannot detect every disease or reliably rule out cancer. It is a complementary screening tool—not a replacement for symptoms-based evaluation or physician-recommended targeted screening.

What should I leave outside the MRI room?

Metallic and electronic items must stay outside the MRI room. This includes phones, watches, jewelry, keys, credit cards, hearing aids, removable dental work, and clothing or accessories with metal. Follow the technologist’s instructions and use the designated storage area for your belongings.

What should I wear for the MRI?

EverVita provides medical scrubs for the MRI. Remove jewelry, watches, piercings, and other metallic or electronic items before entering the scan room. Tell the team about any clothing, undergarments, patches, or wearable devices that may contain metal.

What technology does EverVita use for whole-body MRI?

EverVita uses a GE HealthCare wide-bore MRI and a multiparametric protocol configured for whole-body imaging. The images are reviewed by board-certified radiologists. Image quality depends on the complete protocol, equipment, technologist, and interpretation—not one technical specification alone.

What will I feel or hear during the whole-body MRI?

The MRI itself should not be painful. You will hear loud tapping or knocking sounds and may notice mild vibration while lying still on the table. Hearing protection is provided, and you can communicate with the technologist throughout the scan. Tell the technologist immediately if you feel pain, unusual warmth, or other discomfort.

CT Scan

Does a low-dose CT scan use radiation?

Yes. Low-dose CT, or LDCT, uses ionizing radiation, although the dose is lower than a conventional diagnostic chest CT. The appropriate benefit and risk depend on the reason for screening and your individual history. EverVita reviews eligibility before the scan.

Do EverVita CT scans require IV contrast?

It depends on the CT examination. EverVita’s coronary CT angiography, or CCTA, requires iodinated IV contrast. Low-dose chest CT and coronary calcium scoring do not typically require IV contrast. EverVita will confirm the requirements for your selected service before the appointment.

How much radiation is used during a low-dose CT scan?

The radiation dose varies with the protocol, the area being scanned, and individual factors such as body size. LDCT is designed to use less radiation than a conventional diagnostic CT of the same area, but it is not radiation-free. Ask EverVita for information about the protocol planned for you if you have dose concerns.

How often should I have a low-dose CT scan?

Frequency should be individualized because LDCT uses ionizing radiation. For lung cancer screening, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends annual LDCT only for adults who meet specific age and smoking-history criteria. EverVita or your healthcare provider can help determine whether and when repeat screening is appropriate.

Is MRI or CT better for detecting tumors?

Neither modality is always better. MRI provides strong soft-tissue contrast, while CT is particularly useful for the lungs, calcification, and certain targeted evaluations. The best test depends on the organ, condition, and clinical question, and no screening scan can rule out every cancer.

What are the benefits and risks of low-dose CT?

Low-dose CT can detect important lung or cardiovascular findings with less radiation than a conventional diagnostic CT, but it still uses ionizing radiation and can lead to incidental findings or follow-up testing. EverVita reviews the reason for screening and your history so the expected benefit can be weighed against the risks.

What does EverVita use low-dose CT for?

EverVita uses targeted CT protocols to add information about the lungs and cardiovascular system in selected packages. The exact examination may be a low-dose chest CT, coronary calcium score, or another cardiac CT service. EverVita will confirm which protocol is included before your appointment.

What happens during a low-dose CT scan?

You will lie on a table that moves through the CT scanner while the technologist operates the system from an adjacent room. You will need to remain still and may be asked to hold your breath briefly. The imaging is quick; allow approximately 10–15 minutes for the CT portion of the visit unless EverVita gives you different instructions.

What heart information can EverVita CT services provide?

The answer depends on the CT service. Coronary calcium scoring evaluates calcified plaque, while coronary CT angiography, or CCTA, uses IV contrast to assess the coronary arteries in greater detail. A low-dose chest CT may include portions of the heart but is not a substitute for a dedicated cardiac CT examination.

What is CT or LDCT, and how is it different from MRI?

CT uses X-rays and computer processing to create cross-sectional images. Low-dose CT uses a reduced-radiation protocol for a targeted purpose. MRI uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency energy instead of ionizing radiation and often provides different soft-tissue information. EverVita uses each modality for the questions it is best suited to address.

Who should speak with a clinician before low-dose CT screening?

Low-dose CT screening is intended for selected patients, not everyone. Tell EverVita if you are pregnant or may be pregnant, have significant current symptoms, have a history of cancer or chest radiation, or have already had recent CT imaging. Symptomatic patients may need diagnostic evaluation rather than screening.

Why does EverVita use both MRI and CT?

MRI and CT provide different kinds of information. Whole-body MRI offers broad soft-tissue imaging without ionizing radiation, while targeted CT can provide added detail for areas such as the lungs, coronary calcium, or coronary arteries. Selected EverVita packages combine modalities when their strengths are complementary.

DXA Scan

Does a DXA scan use radiation?

Yes. DXA uses a very small amount of ionizing radiation. The examination is quick and non-invasive, but it is not radiation-free. Tell EverVita before the scan if you are pregnant or may be pregnant.

Does EverVita offer DXA body-composition scans?

Yes. DXA body-composition and bone-density imaging is included in selected multi-modality packages, including Total Clarity and Longevity Expert. Review the current package details or ask EverVita to confirm what is included before booking.

How accurate and repeatable are DXA measurements?

DXA is an established method for bone-density measurement and body-composition assessment, but no measurement is exact. Positioning, hydration, recent meals, and differences between machines or software can affect results. For trend tracking, use similar preparation and, when possible, the same equipment and protocol.

How are my DXA results compared with reference data?

When available, DXA results are compared with reference populations using factors such as age and sex. Your report identifies the measurements and comparisons provided. Percentiles are context—not a diagnosis—and should be reviewed with your healthcare provider when they raise a concern.

How long does a DXA scan take?

The DXA portion of the visit usually takes about 10–15 minutes, although the exact time depends on the examination and positioning. Completing requested forms before your appointment can make check-in faster.

How often should I have a DXA scan?

It depends on the purpose of the scan and your health history. Body-composition tracking and medical bone-density monitoring use different intervals, and repeating a scan too soon may not show a meaningful change. Ask your healthcare provider or EverVita team what interval fits your goal.

What does EverVita’s DXA body-composition report include?

The report uses whole-body DXA data to summarize measurements such as fat mass, lean mass, regional distribution, and bone-related metrics available from the examination. It can support baseline and trend tracking, but it should not be used as a stand-alone diagnosis.

What is a DXA scan?

DXA, also called DEXA, stands for dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. It is a quick, non-invasive examination that uses low-dose X-rays to measure bone mineral density and estimate body-composition metrics such as fat and lean mass.

What should I understand about DXA body-composition estimates?

DXA provides estimates of fat mass, lean mass, and bone mineral content. Results can vary with hydration, recent meals, positioning, and differences between machines or software. Trends are most useful when repeat scans are performed under similar conditions and interpreted alongside your broader health information.

What should I wear for a DXA scan?

Wear comfortable clothing without metal zippers, snaps, buttons, or underwire. Remove jewelry and other metal accessories when instructed because metal can interfere with the measurements. Tell the team if you recently had a barium study, contrast-enhanced imaging, or a nuclear medicine examination.

At the Clinic

Can I book an appointment for someone else?

Yes. You can begin a booking for another adult, but EverVita will need that person’s contact information and their participation in the medical history, consent, and safety-screening process before the appointment is confirmed.

Can I customize the laboratory tests in my package?

The laboratory panel included with each package is standardized. EverVita can explain which tests are included before you book. If you need additional or condition-specific testing, discuss it with your healthcare provider.

Can I eat on the day of my appointment?

EverVita generally asks patients to fast for at least four hours before the whole-body MRI. Your selected package may have additional instructions for laboratory testing, CT, or other services. Follow the preparation message you receive and contact the team if you are unsure.

How far in advance can I book?

Available dates are shown in EverVita’s booking platform. Because availability changes, check the current calendar or contact the team if you need a specific date or have time-sensitive scheduling needs.

How should I prepare for my EverVita appointment?

Follow the instructions EverVita sends for your selected package. For the whole-body MRI, patients are generally asked to fast for at least four hours. Plain water is usually encouraged, but laboratory testing, CT, or other services may have additional instructions. Contact the team before your visit if anything is unclear.

How soon can I get an appointment?

Appointment availability changes with demand and the services you select. EverVita’s booking platform shows the current openings, and the team can help if you need assistance coordinating a multi-service visit.

I ate during the fasting period. What should I do?

Contact EverVita before assuming you should proceed. Eating may affect abdominal MRI images, laboratory results, or other parts of your selected package. The team will review what you ate, when you ate it, and which services are scheduled, then tell you whether the visit can continue or should be adjusted.

What can I drink before my appointment?

Plain water is generally allowed and encouraged unless EverVita gives you different instructions. Tea, coffee, sweeteners, milk, and other beverages may affect fasting requirements or laboratory tests. Follow the preparation message for your package and use the restroom before the MRI for comfort.

What if I am claustrophobic or anxious about the MRI?

Contact EverVita before your appointment. The wide-bore MRI provides more room than a traditional narrow-bore scanner, and the team can explain the process and available comfort measures. If your physician prescribes a sedative, arrange transportation and follow the medication instructions. Do not wait until the scan begins to raise the concern.

After Your Scan

Are EverVita reports the same as a diagnosis?

No. A radiology report documents the interpreting radiologist’s findings and impression for the images obtained. Other package reports may summarize DXA, CT, laboratory, or software-generated measurements. These reports provide clinical information, but a diagnosis may require symptoms, examination, prior records, or additional testing.

Can EverVita help coordinate follow-up care?

Yes. EverVita can explain recommended next steps and share reports with the healthcare providers you authorize. The team can help you understand what type of follow-up may be appropriate, although specialist scheduling and referral requirements depend on the provider and your insurance plan.

Does EverVita retain copies of my scans?

Yes. EverVita securely retains imaging and reports in accordance with applicable federal and Texas medical-record requirements. Keeping prior images can help a radiologist compare future examinations with your baseline. Contact EverVita if you need a copy or want records sent to an authorized provider.

How are population comparisons created?

Selected reports may compare a measurement with a reference dataset and present a percentile or range. The report should identify the measurement and relevant comparison factors. These comparisons provide context, but they are not a diagnosis and may not represent every population equally.

How does EverVita protect my health information?

EverVita limits access to patient information to authorized personnel and uses administrative, technical, and physical safeguards appropriate to protected health information. Records are handled under applicable federal and Texas privacy requirements. Contact EverVita for its current privacy notice or questions about access, sharing, or corrections.

How do I schedule a results consultation, and what can I expect?

When a results consultation is included or recommended, EverVita will contact you with scheduling instructions. The consultation may be by phone or video and focuses on the reported findings, recommended next steps, and questions about follow-up. It does not replace ongoing care with your primary healthcare provider.

How long does it take to receive my radiology report?

The whole-body MRI radiology report is usually available within five business days. Reports from combined packages may take longer because CT, DXA, laboratory, or other analyses have different completion times. EverVita will explain the expected timing for your selected services.

How will I receive my results?

EverVita delivers completed reports through its secure patient communication process and notifies you when they are available. You will receive the reports that correspond to the services in your selected package. The team will explain how to access and share them.

What does an EverVita radiology report include?

The report summarizes the anatomy included in the imaging protocol, describes relevant findings, and provides the radiologist’s impression and any recommended follow-up. If your package includes CT, DXA, laboratory testing, or other analyses, those results may be delivered in separate reports.

What happens if something concerning appears in my results?

A board-certified radiologist reviews your imaging and documents the findings in your report. If a finding requires attention, the EverVita clinical team will contact you, explain the recommended next steps, and help guide appropriate follow-up. A screening finding does not always establish a diagnosis and may require additional evaluation.

Insurance & Payment

Can EverVita provide documentation for an insurance reimbursement request?

Contact EverVita before booking to ask what receipt or supporting documentation is available for your selected services. Your insurer decides whether any amount is eligible for reimbursement, and submitting documentation does not guarantee payment.

Can I use my HSA or FSA to pay for an EverVita scan?

EverVita accepts HSA and FSA cards as payment. Eligibility and reimbursement can depend on your individual plan, so confirm the expense with your plan administrator. EverVita can provide a receipt for your records or reimbursement request.

Is an EverVita scan covered by health insurance?

EverVita’s preventive screening services are generally self-pay, and insurance coverage or reimbursement is not guaranteed. Benefits vary by plan and by medical-necessity requirements. Ask your insurer about possible out-of-network reimbursement before booking, and contact EverVita about the documentation it can provide.

Payment & financing

Does EverVita accept cash or personal checks?

No. EverVita does not accept cash or personal checks. Use one of the accepted electronic payment methods shown during booking.

Does EverVita offer financing?

Yes. EverVita offers third-party financing through Affirm. Approval, available plans, interest, and payment terms are determined by Affirm and are shown before you accept a financing agreement.

Is an EverVita scan tax-deductible?

It may be, depending on whether the expense qualifies under current tax rules and your individual circumstances. EverVita cannot provide tax advice. Keep your receipt and consult a qualified tax professional before claiming a deduction.

Is sales tax added to the scan price?

No. EverVita does not currently add sales tax to the listed price of its scan services. Any financing charges or interest are governed separately by the financing provider’s terms.

What is EverVita’s cancellation and refund policy?

Cancellation, rescheduling, and refund terms are shown during booking and in your appointment confirmation. Review those terms before completing payment, and contact EverVita as soon as possible if you need to change your appointment.

What payment methods does EverVita accept?

EverVita accepts major credit cards, HSA and FSA cards, and eligible financing through Affirm. HSA or FSA eligibility depends on your plan. EverVita does not accept cash or personal checks.

When is payment collected?

Payment is collected during booking to reserve your appointment. The amount due and the current cancellation, rescheduling, and refund terms are shown before checkout.

Which credit cards does EverVita accept?

EverVita accepts Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. Confirm the available payment options at checkout if you plan to use a different card type.

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A Closer Look

Clear Answers About MRI, CT & DXA Scans

MRI Scan

MRI Eligibility

MRI Scan

CT Scan

DXA Scan

At the Clinic

After Your Scan

Insurance & Payment

Payment & financing

Know Sooner. Live Longer.