If you were in a car accident and you’re hurting, waiting for answers can feel daunting. Many patients ask how long MRI results take because every day without information feels like more pain, more stress, and more worry about what comes next.
If you’re still waiting for your report, knowing the usual timelines, what can slow things down, and when to call for an update can help you stay informed and in control while you heal. Let’s break it down so you know what to expect and what to do if your results take longer than you hoped.
How Long Do MRI Results Usually Take?
Most people receive routine MRI results within one to two weeks. Some imaging centers return reports in three to seven days, depending on their workload and how quickly the radiologist can review the images. This is the standard pace for cases that do not require immediate attention.
Urgent scans move faster. When a doctor needs to rule out serious injury, results may come back within hours or within the first one to two days. After a car accident, faster results often help guide early treatment, so timelines may shift based on the severity of your injuries and how your provider prioritizes your case.
What Factors Affect How Long MRI Results Take?
Wait times are not the same for every patient. Several elements influence how quickly a radiologist can review your scan and how soon your doctor receives the report. Knowing these factors helps you understand why some results come soon while others take longer.
Urgency and Medical Priority
Scans marked urgent move ahead of routine cases. If your provider is concerned about issues such as bleeding or nerve damage, your results may be available the same day or within 24 hours. Make sure your doctor and imaging center know your injuries are from a crash so they understand the need for prompt review.
Complexity of the Scan and Body Area
Some areas of the body require more detailed review. A full-spine or brain MRI can take longer to interpret, whereas a single joint, such as a knee, may be quicker. A larger scan involves more images, which increases the time the radiologist needs to complete the report.
Radiologist Workload, Facility, and Reporting Process
Imaging centers follow different workflows. Some have radiologists on site, others use outside readers, and some share results through portals or scheduled follow-up visits. Ask how your results will be delivered so you know who will contact you and when.
Insurance, Referral, and Administrative Delays
Authorizations, paperwork, and follow-up scheduling can slow down the process. Accident-related cases may require additional documentation, so staying organized and checking in with your provider helps keep things moving.
Read: What to Expect During an MRI After an Accident
What You Should Do While Waiting for MRI Results
Waiting for results can slow your momentum as you try to understand your injuries and plan your recovery. A few practical steps can help you stay informed and keep the process moving.
1. Stay in Contact with Your Doctor and Imaging Center
Set clear expectations early. When scheduling your MRI, use these questions to guide the conversation:
- How long do you estimate it will take for my results to be available?
- If something urgent shows up, will I get a call sooner?
- How will I receive my results by phone, portal, or in person?
- Are there any factors in my case that might make mine take longer?
- If I do not hear anything within the timeframe you mentioned, who should I contact?
This helps you stay organized and reduces confusion later.
2. Prepare for Your Follow-Up
Write down your symptoms, concerns, and anything that has changed since the scan. When your results come in, you will be ready to discuss the next step in your care.
3. Avoid Worst Case Searching
A delay does not always signal a problem. Many times, it comes from a busy schedule or review queues. Try not to assume the worst while you wait for the official report.
4. Track Symptoms and Keep Your Records Updated
If your injuries are related to a car accident, document your pain levels, mobility, and all treatment visits. Keep your attorney updated if your case involves a claim. If the timeframe you were given has passed, call for a status update.
When Should You Call Your Doctor? Signs the Wait is Too Long
If you have not received results within 10 to 14 days for a routine scan, call your doctor or the imaging center to confirm the status. Contact your provider immediately if your symptoms change or worsen. New numbness, weakness, or increasing pain are red flags that require prompt medical attention.
For accident-related injuries, delayed results can delay treatment and weaken your claim. Your MRI drives the clinical decisions that follow, including orthopedic evaluation, chiropractic care, neurological assessment, and physical therapy. It also provides essential documentation your attorney or adjuster uses to show the severity of your injuries and the care you need.
Get Clear Guidance and Support After an Accident with AICA Orthopedics
Gaining a clear view of MRI timelines, the factors that affect your results, and when to follow up gives you a better sense of what to expect during your recovery. Clear information helps you make decisions with confidence and avoid delays in your care.
AICA Orthopedics is here to support you with fast access to real medical care after an accident. You can get same-day appointments, 24-hour doctor availability, and all specialists in one place, including orthopedics, chiropractic care, physical therapy, and neurology. If you were not at fault, your care has no out-of-pocket cost, and transportation is available if you need it. Our team also provides the records and treatment plans that help your attorney protect your claim. With multiple clinics across Atlanta, you can start getting better right away.
Call (404) 855-2141. We Got Your Back. Start healing now.
