FAQ | MRI Screening Service by Ezra

About Ezra
Prepping for my Ezra Scan
The Ezra Scan Experience
Telehealth
Cost and Pricing
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Computed Tomography (CT) Scan
No Show/Refund policy

About Ezra

What does the Ezra MRI Scan look for?

Ezra is a service designed to screen adults (18 years and older) for early cancer and early disease and is for individuals who want to be proactive with their health and get an advantage by looking inside their body. We do this with MRI to quickly and accurately look at your major organs (aside from the breasts, lungs, and heart) from the top of your head to the base of your pelvis.

Who shouldn't get an Ezra MRI Scan?

Ezra was designed for individuals who are feeling well and want to be proactive with their health and gain an advantage by looking inside their body.If you are having symptoms or abnormal lab findings (eg. elevated PSA, abnormal TSH), you should see your primary care provider for focused evaluation, which may include physical exam, blood testing, imaging, etc.

If you have a recent cancer diagnosis and/or are actively receiving current treatment for cancer, you should continue care with your cancer doctor and not get an Ezra Scan at this time.Unsure if Ezra is the right fit for you and your health? Please reach out, we would be glad to help before you book anything.

Why sign up for an Ezra Scan and not go directly to an imaging facility?

Three reasons: cost, quality, and ease.

First, Ezra members pay a lower price. We buy MRI scanning slots in bulk from our imaging partners, who give us preferential rates — and pass those savings on to you.

Second, your scan is analyzed by radiologists who are carefully vetted and routinely review Ezra Scans. Third, we make it easy for you. As an Ezra Member, you don’t need a referral and your Ezra Medical Provider will explain all your results. Your Ezra Care Team is always here for you.

How often should I get an Ezra MRI Scan?

Ezra recommends getting the Ezra MRI Scan once a year (every 12 months). This potentially allows for monitoring of more aggressive cancers (e.g. ovarian and pancreatic cancers) that may not have been present or too small to be detected in previous scans, as well as to monitor for overall health.

Do normal Ezra Scan results mean that I definitely do not have cancer?

No medical study is 100% perfect, so a normal scan does not guarantee there is no cancer. A very early cancer may need time to grow in size before it can become detectable on a scan. However, Ezra has been shown to be highly effective in screening for abnormalities. For example, our service has found potential early cancers smaller than 1 cm.

Can an Ezra Scan tell me that I could have cancer when I actually don't?

An Ezra Scan provides images to help screen for possible cancerous growths and may give us what we call false alarms (also known as false positives). For example, we may find something that is concerning for cancer, but additional studies with your medical provider show that it’s nothing worrisome. This is good news, but may cause some anxiety while you are waiting for the results from those additional studies.

I had cancer before, should I get an Ezra Scan?

The Ezra scan is not intended to evaluate or monitor any active cancer. Individuals with a past cancer history may be eligible for an Ezra Scan.

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When I have an Ezra Scan, do I still have to do other cancer screenings such as a mammogram or colonoscopy?

Ezra Scans have been shown to be highly effective in screening for abnormalities. For example, our service has found potential early cancers smaller than 1 cm, that’s about the size of a pea. Still, no medical service is 100% perfect. An Ezra Scan is not meant to replace age-appropriate cancer screening guidelines, such as a colonoscopy and mammogram.

Can the Ezra MRI Scan see all possible growths that could represent cancer in the body?

Although MRI is great for visualizing potential cancers in the body, it’s not as good at detecting two types of lesions/growths in the body:

Lesions in the lungs are difficult to detect using images from an MRI since the lungs consist of air tissue. MRI depends on hydrogen atoms (predominantly found in water molecules) being present to create internal images of your body. A CT scan provides a better view inside the lungs.
MRI is also not as good at detecting flatter lesions, which are most commonly found in the esophagus, stomach, colon and bladder. These flatter lesions are better evaluated by directly looking at them, like what is done during a colonoscopy.

Can the Ezra MRI Scan provide information about my joints (e.g. shoulders, knees)?

Although MRI is great for detecting musculoskeletal conditions (e.g. joint/cartilage issues of the knees), the Ezra Full Body does not cover the upper or lower limbs. It can, however, detect arthritic and wear-and-tear changes of the spine. If you have any joint symptoms or an injury, please have it evaluated by your primary care provider or an orthopedic specialist.

What if I have a high prostate-specific antigen (PSA) value?

The Ezra screening service is not designed for individuals with high or fluctuating PSA values. For your safety, we recommend you seek care with your PCP and/or a urologist for diagnostic studies, such as an MRI of the prostate with and without contrast.

Why are the breasts not included in the Ezra MRI Scan?

Breasts are not covered by the standard Ezra Full Body because breast imaging with MRI requires the use of specialized breast coils and IV contrast, both of which are not used.

Why is the heart not included in the Ezra MRI Scan?

Visualizing the heart requires special sequences, slices and time required by a dedicated cardiac MRI, and thus we can generally only comment on heart size.

Can children and adolescents get an Ezra Scan?

Ezra Scans are designed to provide images for individuals 18 years of age and older.

Can I get a scan if I am pregnant or nursing

We do not perform Ezra scans on anyone who is pregnant, regardless of the stage of pregnancy. If you are currently nursing (but not pregnant), you may be eligible for a scan. If you have any concerns, please consult your healthcare provider before scheduling.

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You don't offer Ezra scans near me. When will Ezra be available in my city?

We’re working hard to launch our scans in more cities. See where we'll be launching soon and be the first to know when we launch in your city by clicking here.

Prepping for my Ezra Scan

Can I eat and drink the day of my scan?

Yes, you can eat and drink the day of your scan. However, it is recommended to eat lighter (e.g. no fried, greasy, heavy foods) and to eat less gassy foods (e.g. soda, seltzer water, beans, broccoli, cabbage, etc.). Also, try to limit fluid intake about 1.5 – 2 hours prior to your scan so you don’t feel the need to stop the scan multiple times to use the restroom.

Can I take my medications on the day of my Ezra Scan?

Contact your primary medical provider regarding your medications. If you have a medication patch, it will need to be removed before your Ezra Scan for safety.

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Can I have caffeinated beverages (e.g. coffee, tea) prior to my scan?

Yes, you may have caffeinated beverages (unless you are having a coronary artery calcium test with your low-dose Chest CT). Just be mindful of when you have it if it usually causes you to need to use the restroom.

Can I have sexual activity before my scan?

If you are getting a scan that includes your pelvis/prostate, to best image your seminal vesicles (glands located behind the bladder that produce semen fluid), you should refrain from sexual activity causing ejaculation 48-72 hours prior to your scan. This does not apply to women or men who are having scans that do not include the pelvis/prostate.

When should I arrive at the imaging center?

Please arrive at the imaging center at least 30 minutes prior to your scan time. This will allow you to review and sign your pre-completed paperwork, speak to the radiology technician, change your clothes, and be on the scanning table at the time of your scheduled appointment.

What should I bring with me to my scan appointment?

Please make sure to bring a government-issued photo ID.

Can I have an Ezra MRI with braces or permanent retainers?

Yes, dental braces and permanent retainers are MRI-safe. However, they may create some artifacts, such as blurring, on images of the brain and neck.

I have metal, implant, or jewelry in or on my body; can I get an Ezra Scan?

Remove jewelry before your Ezra Scan. For non-removable jewelry, metal, or implants, please provide as much information as possible (implant card, operative note, etc) for an MRI safety review.

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The Ezra Scan Experience

What can I expect on the day of my scan?

Our radiology partner facilities are staffed with dedicated radiology technicians who are specifically trained to perform the Ezra Scan protocols. When you get to the imaging center, let the front desk staff know that you are there for your Ezra Scan and they will take great care of you. They’ll have your pre-completed paperwork and all you need to do is sign. The radiology technician will guide you to the area where you will get your scan done, where you will be given a gown and a locker to put all of your personal belongings. If you are having an MRI, remember to place all metal objects in the locker since the MRI is a giant magnet.

Do I have to change out of my clothes for an Ezra Scan or can I wear my own clothes?

If you prefer to wear your own clothes, you can wear a loose-fitting 100% cotton shirt and cotton sweatpants with no metallic components to them. If there is any question of whether metal exists in your clothing, you will be asked to change into the gown provided. Sports bras are only acceptable if there are no metallic adjustable straps, clips or underwire.

What can I expect when I'm in the MRI machine?

The MRI machine is noisy and sounds like a very loud dial-up modem. You will be given earplugs to help minimize the noise. Some machines allow for the use of headphones. If yours does, the technician will provide those to you and will set up the music you would like to listen to (you can select anything on Spotify). Eye masks are also available at most locations upon request.

Coils are used to help generate high-quality images. Like protective football gear, one is placed loosely around your head and two more on your upper and lower abdomen. An automated voice will ask you to take a deep breath and hold during portions of the scan to prevent movement that could blur the images. After 15-20 seconds, it will tell you to breathe normally. If you’re unable to hold your breath for the entire time, it is helpful if you exhale and inhale very slowly.

The length of time in the machine and the magnets that are used can cause you to get warm during the scan. Since you are trying to lay as still as possible you may experience muscle twitching – this is quite normal. Lastly, since we are getting images from the top of your head to the base of your pelvis, this requires you to be in the MRI machine for at least an hour (this is an average time – height, weight and movement play a role in how long a scan lasts). If you would like to have a countdown during your scan, please notify your radiology technician prior to starting your scan (e.g. “Tell me every 15-20 minutes that that amount of time has passed” or “Tell me when I only have 20 minutes left”)

What happens after my Ezra Scan?

If you completed Ezra Full Body, Flash, or Plus you will receive your report within 5-7 business days of having your scan and if you completed Ezra Blueprint you will receive your report within 8-10 business days of having your scan. You will receive an email when your report is ready.

Your Ezra Report will translate your findings into straight-forward language and discuss next steps and recommendations. You will get a copy of the original radiology reports at the end of your Ezra report and you will have online access to your scan images.

What health safety measures are being taken at the imaging facility?

Our partner facilities are taking all CDC-recommended preventive actions to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus. This includes screening all staff and individuals entering the facility for COVID-19 related symptoms. Individuals entering the facility are also required to wear a face mask throughout the duration of their visit. Those with COVID-19 symptoms are not allowed into the facility.

Why do you partner with imaging centers instead of owning your own facilities?

At Ezra, we’re eager to create a world where everyone can detect cancer early at an affordable price and with the best technology. Because of this, we believe in partnering with the best imaging centers and radiologists across the country to deliver the best screening care possible. When we partner with an imaging facility, we work hard to eliminate paperwork, reduce wait time, negotiate lower prices, and deliver a seamless in-facility experience. With our dedicated care team, Ezra provides some of the fastest imaging protocols designed to help find signs of cancer earlier while delivering comprehensive results to you faster.

Telehealth

How do I communicate with my Ezra Medical Provider?

After you’re signed up with Ezra, you will connect with your Ezra Medical Provider over Zoom conferencing, which gives you the ability to virtually meet and screen share to discuss your results.

How long after my scan do I get the results?

We’re continuously working on faster report delivery, and currently the majority of our Members receive their Ezra Report within an average of 5-7 business days, however, for Ezra Blueprint Members, you can expect your report in 8-10 business days after your scan, on your MyEzra dashboard.

Who actually reads my images?

Your images are reviewed by a board-certified radiologist specializing in the region being scanned, who then creates a detailed radiology report for you. Our Medical team, using AI translates this report into easy to understand language with actionable next steps.

When will I meet with my Ezra Medical Provider?

You can reach out to us anytime to contact your Ezra Medical Provider. Every member has the option to schedule a follow-up appointment to review their results, and some members may be asked to meet before their scan to ensure MRI safety.

Initial Consultation – If we have any questions about your medical questionnaire to ensure MRI safety, we’ll schedule a consultation before your scan.Follow-up Appointment – After receiving your results, you can sign up for a follow-up appointment with your Ezra Medical Provider if you'd like to review your results with them.

Can I meet with my Ezra Medical Provider from anywhere?

No, Ezra medical providers can only practice in states where they are licensed. While we are licensed in the states where we have locations and some additional states, we recommend contacting us to confirm if you are traveling from a state where we do not have an Ezra location. If you're located outside the U.S., we cannot conduct a virtual appointment with you. This applies to both initial consultations and follow-up appointments, which take place over Zoom.

Cost and Pricing

Is an Ezra Scan covered by insurance?

At this time, Ezra is offered directly to consumers, and you can use HSA/FSA dollars to pay for your Ezra Scan. We’re working with payers to get Ezra included in health plans. Sign up for our newsletter for updates on our insurance efforts.

What is the price of an Ezra Scan?

Please visit our pricing page for information about Ezra Scans. You can use FSA/HSA dollars, and we also provide flexible payment plans.

Can I use more than one promo code at a time?

No, only one promo code can be used per scan. Promo codes cannot be combined or stacked with other discounts unless explicitly stated.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

What is an MRI scan?

MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. An MRI machine is a giant magnet that uses radio waves to take pictures of your body’s organs and structures. It’s safe, as long as you don’t have any metallic implants that are incompatible with MRI scanning (e.g. a pacemaker or certain metallic orthopedic implants). Because of the magnetic field, you may not wear any jewelry or clothing that have metallic components during your MRI.

Are MRI scans safe?

Yes, MRI scans have been around since the 1980s and have a safe track record (and added bonus: pain-free). Unlike other medical imaging procedures such as CT (CAT scan) and X-ray, MRI scans don’t expose you to harmful radiation.

Can you tell me more about your MRI machines?

Absolutely! We carefully ensure every MRI scanner meets our quality standards. Our scans are done using 1.5T and 3T strength magnets in order to make sure we get the optimal look inside your body.

Is the MRI machine open or closed?

Ezra Scans are not done in open or standing MRIs. Our scans are done in closed, wide-bore MRI machines.

How can I get an MRI if I'm claustrophobic?

Keep in mind that people talk about MRI and claustrophobia based on what they have heard or experienced in the past. Not all of this is true today. Older MRI machines had narrower tunnels than modern MRI equipment. The older machines were often relatively dark, and the scanner’s ceiling was very close to the face and head.

MRI scanners today have wider openings, are fully lit, ventilated, and open at both ends (above your head and below your feet). These machines greatly improve comfort during the exam.In some cases, you may be able to listen to music to help you relax during the exam. If you wish, you can be given earplugs or a headset to help block out noise from the scanner. Eye masks are also available at most locations upon request.

The well-trained radiology technicians work very closely with you to help lower anxieties, and they will tell you how long to expect your imaging to actually take. Our technologist will see you and be in contact with you at all times during your exam. Speakers inside the scanner will enable the technologist to communicate with you and hear what you say. You also will have a call button (in the form of a squeeze ball) so that you can let the technologist know if you have any problems relaxing during the procedure. If you are concerned about how you will tolerate your MRI exam, we suggest talking to your personal medical provider for help in developing a plan or possibly prescribing an oral medication taken to minimize your anxiety. Please notify us if an oral medication will be taken prior to your scan.

Computed Tomography (CT) Scan

What is a CT scan? What is a low-dose CT (LDCT) scan?

CT stands for Computed Tomography. A CT scanner uses the combination of X-ray with computer processing to take pictures of your body’s organs and structures. Unlike MRI, it does require the use of ionizing radiation (X-rays), which is potentially harmful.

A LDCT scan uses much less ionizing radiation than a regular CT. The amount of exposure is generally considered safe and is FDA regulated and approved. The LDCT is the gold standard for screening purposes for the lungs and is the CT imaging technique that Ezra uses.

Are Ezra low-dose CT (LDCT) scans safe?

Everything in medicine has benefits and risks. An Ezra LDCT is safe, but it does expose you to ionizing radiation. The amount of exposure is less than a full dose chest CT and is FDA-regulated and approved. LDCT benefits include screening for lung cancer. If you’d like, you can discuss this more with your Ezra Medical Provider.

How much radiation will I be exposed to with a low-dose CT (LDCT)?

Low-dose CT scanners use ionizing radiation and are FDA-regulated equipment. The exact amount of radiation exposure depends on the radiation that is used and the radiation that is absorbed. This means an individual’s exposure depends on the specific protocol (e.g. looking at the lungs versus the lungs and the veins of the heart together) and an individual’s body composition and size (e.g. long torso versus short torso). A rough estimate of radiation exposure can be obtained here: https://www.xrayrisk.com/.

Why should I get a low-dose CT (LDCT) of the chest?

Ezra uses LDCT for screening for lung cancer. Like an Ezra Full Body (MRI), an Ezra LDCT is for asymptomatic individuals on a purely proactive basis.

How often should I get a low-dose CT (LDCT) to screen for lung cancer?

Due to radiation exposure with a LDCT, it is not recommended to have this screening done on a yearly basis for those considered low risk for lung cancer. The US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends annual screening for lung cancer with a LDCT for those individuals at high risk of lung cancer based on age, total cumulative exposure to tobacco smoke, and years since quitting smoking. If you’d like, you can discuss this more with your Ezra Medical Provider.

Who shouldn’t get a low-dose CT (LDCT) for lung cancer screening?

Ezra wants to ensure your health and safety. If you are younger than age 35, we do not recommend an LDCT for you. If you have any active or past history of significant pulmonary symptoms and/or conditions (e.g. current and/or chronic cough, lung cancer, history of radiation treatment to the chest, etc.), you will be best served by seeking evaluation and/or continuing care from your primary care provider or respective specialist.

What can I expect during the low-dose CT (LDCT) scan of the chest?

During the LDCT scan of the chest, you lie on your back on a movable table, which slides into the tube-like CT scanner. Your head is outside the scanner the whole time. The exam room will likely be cool.You’ll be asked to lie still and hold your breath for a few seconds while the pictures are taken. The technician operates the scanner from a room next door, but can see and talk to you the entire time. The entire procedure should take about 10 to 15 minutes.

Why is the heart not included in the Ezra low-dose CT (LDCT) of the chest?

Ezra uses LDCT for screening for lung cancer. Visualizing the heart and the associated blood vessels requires a dedicated ECG-gated heart CT scan ( an imaging technique that coordinates with your heart rate) and thus we can generally only comment on heart size.

No Show/Refund policy

How do I reschedule my scan?

More than 48 hrs before your scan appointment: You can reschedule your scan for free through your My Ezra portal or send us an email at hello@ezra.com.Less than 48 hrs before your scan appointment: Free rescheduling is no longer available. However, we can assist you with rescheduling for a fee of 25% of the full package price (excluding promo codes). Please email us at hello@ezra.com for assistance.

How do I cancel my scan?

More than 48 hrs before your scan appointment: You can cancel your scan through your My Ezra portal or send us an email at hello@ezra.com for a full refund.Less than 48 hrs before your scan appointment: Cancellations made within 48 hours are not eligible for a refund. However, you can reschedule for a fee of 25% of the full package price (excluding promo codes). Please email us at hello@ezra.com to reschedule.

Can I change my scan package?

Changes to scan packages must be made at least 5 days before your scheduled appointment. These changes require additional medical review, updated paperwork, and may also trigger an Initial Consultation with our medical team. If you wish to change your package within 5 days of your appointment, the scan will need to be rescheduled. Please note that our cancellation and refund policy applies within 48 hours of the appointment.To make a change email hello@ezra.com.

What happens if I am running late for my scan?

We ask that you arrive at the imaging center 20-30 minutes before your scan appointment to review MRI safety with your technologist and change into your PJs. Our centers follow a strict schedule, so if you arrive after your appointment time, we won't be able to accommodate your scan.

Unfortunately, you will not be eligible for a refund. However, you can reschedule for a fee of 25% of the full package price (excluding promo codes). Please email us at hello@ezra.com to reschedule.

What happens if I miss my scan?

If you miss your scan you will not be eligible for a refund. However, you can reschedule for a fee of 25% of the full package price (excluding promo codes). Please email us at hello@ezra.com to reschedule.

What happens if I am not able to complete my scan due to claustrophobia?

We understand that some individuals may experience anxiety or claustrophobia during their scan. If you’re unable to complete your scan, we unfortunately cannot offer a full refund, as resources such as appointment time, staff, and equipment are reserved specifically for you.

However, we are committed to supporting our members and complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). If your inability to complete the scan is related to a medical or disability-related condition, we will review rescheduling or refund requests on a case-by-case basis in accordance with applicable law.

You may reschedule your scan for a fee equal to 25% of the package price (excluding promotional discounts). For individuals with anxiety or claustrophobia, we recommend speaking with your primary care provider about a prescription for an oral anxiolytic medication to help you feel more comfortable during your next visit.

To request a reschedule or accommodation, please contact us at hello@ezra.com.

Frequently Asked Questions