More people in the Illawarra now have access to MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scans funded through Medicare, the Member for Cunningham, Alison Byrnes MP has announced.

 

Ms Byrnes visited PRP Diagnostic Imaging in Wollongong recently to speak with staff about the difference this will make for local patients.  

 

Up until now, only some MRI machines were eligible or partially eligible to provide Medicare-funded MRI services.

 

The Albanese Government will allow scans from all MRI machines at medical practices with a current Medicare MRI licence to be billed to Medicare.

 

From 1 July, the MRI machine at PRP Diagnostic Imaging Wollongong will be able to provide all the scans funded through Medicare for patients, saving them up to $700 on the cost of each scan.

 

This reform also means doctors will have more imaging options for their patients, leading to shorter waiting times for scans.

 

The government committed $69.8 million in the 2024–25 Budget to remove barriers to accessing MRI services funded through Medicare.

 

As of 1 June 2025, 258 practices hold equipment-based MRI licences. The reform will mean all their MRI machines can provide Medicare-funded services for any of the 120 scan types listed on the Medicare Benefits Schedule. This will expand access for at least 231 MRI machines.

 

MRI is a way to examine organs, tissues and bones without surgery. It produces detailed images to help doctors diagnose health conditions.

 

Phase 2 of the reform will begin on 1 July 2027, removing all licensing requirements for MRI machines at practices that also offer ultrasound, CT and X-ray services.

 

“I was absolutely delighted to visit PRP Wollongong to share the fantastic news that more scans through their MRI machine are now Medicare-eligible.”

 

“Local people tell me that the cost of healthcare is one of their top concerns and this change will help to save local people money on the cost of their scans, as well as give patients more choice on where to get them.”  

 

“The Albanese Government wants to make MRI scans accessible for whoever needs them.”

 

“Making MRIs more affordable is another way the Albanese Government is strengthening Medicare.”

 

“Thank you to all our amazing medical imaging staff across the Illawarra for the work you do supporting our community.”