MRI Scan in Vietnam

Medical tourism has made Vietnam a sought-after destination for affordable, high-quality medical care. Among the many services available, MRI scans in Vietnam stand out for their affordability, short waitlist and modern equipment.

While waiting lists in most countries are lengthy or it is difficult to even get a doctor’s approval to undergo an MRI scan, Vietnam’s private health care system makes the process much faster with even non-emergency cases being scheduled in a matter of days.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a diagnostic tool that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of the body’s internal structures. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, MRI scans do not involve ionizing radiation, making them a safer choice for many patients.

MRI scans are essential for diagnosing conditions ranging from brain tumors and spinal cord injuries to joint issues and soft tissue damage. They provide a lot more detail than X-rays or CT scans, enabling doctors to create more precise treatment plans. MRI scans are used to diagnose or analyze different conditions, such as:

• Neurological conditions (e.g., multiple sclerosis, stroke)
• Musculoskeletal injuries (e.g., ligament tears, herniated discs)
• Cardiovascular health (e.g., heart abnormalities)
• Abdominal and pelvic conditions (e.g., organ damage)

Costs of MRI Scans in Vietnam

Starting from $200

• Brain MRI
• Cervical Spine MRI
• Thoracic Spine MRI
• Lumbosacral Spine MRI
• Upper Abdomen MRI
• Lower Abdomen MRI
• Musculoskeletal (knee, shoulder, hip or wrist) MRI

Starting from $500

• Whole Abdomen MRI
• Whole Spine MRI
• Brain MRA (assess abnormalities in brain blood supply)

Private hospitals often charge more but provide faster services, provide better services and has staff that speaks excellent English with Doctor’s who have often studied abroad. Public hospitals, though more affordable, usually have much longer wait times, older facilities and equipment and staff that is less experienced in dealing with foreigners.

Some hospitals and clinics advertise prices without including contrast fluid (if needed), providing films and/or radiologist evaluation. To make a fair comparison between different medical providers, it is important to make sure both prices include the same services.

Waiting Times for MRI Scans in Vietnam

Unlike many other countries, the waiting list for an MRI scan is very short and you can get one in a matter of days. Emergency cases are always prioritized in both public hospitals and private hospitals meaning that in these cases the waiting period is drastically shorter or done on the same day.

Public hospitals: waiting periods for non-urgent MRI scans can be several weeks long

Private clinics and hospitals: waiting period is often 1-3 days for non-urgent scans, sometimes even offering same-day appointments

Vietnamese radiologist preparing an international patient for MRI—Vietnam provides advanced imaging, expert care, and affordable diagnostics.

Eligibility Criteria for MRI Scans

Most people are eligible, including children and elderly patients. However, the doctor may assess your medical history first.

What you’ll need to schedule an MRI:

• A doctor’s referral (private hospitals offer this on request, public hospitals are not guaranteed to)
• Medical history
• Passport

An MRI scan is not recommended or may require a doctor’s evaluation for:

• Patients with metal implants or pacemakers
• Those suffering from severe claustrophobia
• Pregnant women during their first trimester (in most cases)