Instructions for subjects

This is not a medical diagnostic test

With Functional MRI, new technology makes it possible to investigate the mind directly including memory, emotion, and thinking. Although MRI scanners are primarily used by medical doctors for diagnosis, it is important to emphasize that AFI’s Functional MRI is not a medical diagnostic test, and is typically not covered by medical insurance or medical insurance regulations.

Safety:  Magnets are dangerously strong

Inside the scanner is a very strong magnet, so strong that it can pick up heavy metal objects like a wheelchair and an oxygen tank.  It can also twist or damage metal objects in your body such as pacemakers, or surgical clips in the brain or blood vessels.  Finally bits of metal in your body can make the magnet malfunction.  The magnet will ruin credit cards and cell phones.  Thus we may not scan any person without a completed Safety Questionnaire.

What to wear

Before you enter the scanner you must remove all metal objects including earrings, glasses and bras (without metal) are safe.  Stretch “sports” bras (without metal) are safe.  We suggest you come to the test wearing no metal above your waist.  You will be asked to remove your shoes, paper slippers will be available.You will be asked to remove everything from your pockets including loose change, cell phones, credit cards.  We suggest you lock them in your car, but there will also be small lockers in the changing room. You must be able to read the screen without glasses or have non-metallic glasses. Please bring your driver’s license or other picture ID


Safety Checklist of Prohibited Items

  • Jewelry (gold or silver rings on fingers ok)
  • Piercings above the waist (navel ok)
  • Bobby pins and metal hair clips
  • Bras with metal parts (some sports bras ok)
  • Cell phones, pagers, Blackberries etc.
  • Credit cards
  • Coins, metal objects in pockets
  • Shoes (paper slippers will be provided)
  • Dental implants implanted within the past 2 months

Testing Experience

The test will take approximately 1 hour during which you will lie on your back in a narrow “tunnel” which at times will be making loud banging and beeping noises. You will be wearing a set of headphones.  You will be looking at a screen reflected in a small mirror above your eyes.  It is very important to keep your head motionless during the testing. Be sure to use the restroom just before you enter the scanner.Before beginning the test you will be asked to sign an Informed Consent.

Safety Questionnaire

Click here, print out, and complete form.
Fax to:
858 444-3599

OR

Mail to:
Applied fMRI Institute
10065 Old Grove Rd. Ste 103
San Diego, CA 92131

OR

Scan and email to:
davidhubbardmd@appliedfmri.org

If you need eye glasses for distance, e.g. to watch movies or TV...

please ask your eye doctor to fax your eye prescription to us.  Contact lens are also fine.