What MRI scan costs, by type of facility
Based on 0 price checks: published prices, our own enquiries and quotes sent to patients. A guide, not a quote.
About MRI scan
An MRI uses a strong magnet to make detailed images of soft tissue such as the brain, spine, joints and organs. You need a doctor's request form, and most centres book within a few days.
What changes the price
- Body partA single knee costs less than a whole spine or a brain scan with extra sequences.
- Contrast dyeContrast adds cost and may need a kidney function blood test first.
- Machine strength3 Tesla machines give finer detail and usually cost more than 1.5 Tesla.
- Facility typePublic hospitals are cheapest but often have long waiting lists.
- Reporting speedSame-day reports can carry an urgent fee.
Your options
| Option | Best for |
|---|---|
| MRI, one body part, no contrast | Most joint, spine and brain scans |
| MRI with contrast | Tumours, infections and some brain scans |
| MRI, two or more body parts | When your doctor needs several areas at once |
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What the price usually covers
Usually included
- The scan itself
- A written report by a radiologist
- Images on CD, film or a download link
Often charged on top
- Contrast dye, if your doctor asks for it
- A doctor's consultation to explain the results
- Sedation for children or anxious patients
- Urgent same-day reporting
SHA and insurance
SHA cover for MRI scan depends on the benefit package and whether the facility is contracted for it. Ask the facility's SHA desk to confirm, and start pre-authorisation early for planned treatment.
Common questions
Do I need a doctor's referral for an MRI?
Most imaging centres in Kenya ask for a request form from a doctor, so the radiologist knows what to look for. Some will book a doctor's review for you.
Does SHA pay for an MRI?
Cover depends on your SHA benefit package and whether the facility is contracted. Ask the centre to confirm before the scan.
How long does an MRI take?
Usually 20 to 60 minutes depending on the body part and whether contrast is used.
Getting an MRI scan in Kenya
MRI scans are offered by public referral hospitals, mission hospitals, private hospitals and standalone imaging centres. In Nairobi most private centres are in Upper Hill, Parklands, Westlands and the CBD, and many county referral hospitals in Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru and Eldoret also have MRI machines. Public hospitals usually cost least but can have long waiting lists; private centres often book within a few days.
How to keep the cost down
- Ask your doctor exactly which body part and sequences are needed, so you are not quoted for a larger scan.
- Check whether your SHA package or insurer covers the scan at that facility before booking.
- Compare standalone imaging centres with hospital radiology departments: for the same scan, centres are often cheaper.
- Ask whether contrast is really required, since it adds the cost of the dye and a kidney test.
Questions to ask before you pay
- Is the radiologist's report included in the price?
- Is it a 1.5 Tesla or 3 Tesla machine?
- How soon will I get the report and images?
- Is there an extra charge for contrast or sedation?
Had this done recently? Tell us what you paid
Where these prices come from. Published price lists, our own enquiries to facilities, SHA tariffs where relevant, and quotes partner clinics send to patients through this site. How we check prices.
Prices are indicative and change often. Confirm the full cost with the facility before treatment. This page is general information, not medical advice.