There are different types of diagnostic tests that radiologists and other medical professionals can perform when looking for injuries, signs of illness, and other problems. MRIs and CT scans are both common types of radiology services. Of course, your doctor will know which test is best for you, depending on your situation and the health concern that he or she is looking for. 

They're Completed More Quickly

For one thing, if you're dreading having a test done, you are probably hoping that it will be done and over with as quickly as possible. The good news is that CT scans are usually very fast. This is better for patients who want the test to be done quickly. In some cases, it can also help radiologists and doctors perform more accurate testing, since there is less risk of the patient moving around and causing problems with the test during such a quick test. In comparison to ultrasounds, which are also sometimes used for diagnostic purposes, CT scans are quicker, too.

It's Not as Noisy

One thing that you might have heard about having an MRI done is the fact that the machine that is used to perform the test can be quite loud. If you do have an MRI done, the radiologist may give you a pair of headphones or earplugs, which can help. However, for those who are sensitive to noise, the noise of the machine can still be frightening or bothersome. A CT scan is a much quieter test, making it a better option for those who are nervous about a noisy testing machine.

They Aren't Usually as Expensive

It's no secret that having medical tests performed can be expensive. If you are uninsured or underinsured, this can be a big concern. Generally, having a CT scan is cheaper than having an MRI done. However, if you are still concerned about costs, you should let your doctor know; he or she might be able to tell you about programs that can help with the cost.

They Still Provide Helpful Information

One downside of a CT scan in comparison to an MRI is the fact that the results often aren't quite as thorough, accurate, or helpful. However, this does not mean that a CT scan is not a valuable testing tool for medical professionals to use. In some cases, medical professionals will perform a CT scan first, though, and then determine whether or not an MRI is necessary based off of the information that they are able to get from the CT scan.