How MRI referrals work in NZ

Getting an MRI Through ACC: What Patients Need to Know

An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a non-invasive scan that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of soft tissues, joints, and internal structures. It’s commonly used to diagnose musculoskeletal injuries, such as those affecting the spine, knees, or neck.

In New Zealand, access to ACC-funded MRIs is carefully managed to ensure appropriate use. Not all GPs can refer directly for an MRI—they must first complete specific training and be accredited under ACC’s GP Referred MRI (GPMRI) programme. This ensures referrals meet strict clinical criteria and are only made when imaging is likely to influence treatment decisions. Learn more from ACC’s official guidelines.

If you've had an injury and your GP believes an MRI could help with diagnosis or treatment, there are two funded referral pathways available through ACC:

• GP MRI – for eligible injuries referred by trained GPs

• GPSI – for broader musculoskeletal assessments by GPs with a Special Interest

Both pathways are designed to reduce wait times and improve access to diagnostic imaging without needing a specialist referral first.

1. GP MRI Referrals

Some GPs at QMC are accredited to refer patients directly for ACC-funded MRIs under specific clinical criteria.  

Our Patient Admin team has a list of these doctors. Please call our main line 03 441 0500 and press 1. The team there will either advise or transfer you through to our Patient Admin team to guide you.

Eligibility criteria for GP MRI referrals:

• Patients must be 16 or older and able to give consent

• Injury must be less than 6 months old

• Only covers knee, lumbar spine (lower back), and cervical spine (neck) injuries

• Referrals must meet ACC’s clinical guidelines, which often require six weeks of rehabilitation before imaging is approved

Patients referred through this pathway will have their MRI reviewed by the referring GP.

2. GPSI Referrals

GPSI stands for General Practitioner with a Special Interest. These doctors have advanced training in musculoskeletal medicine and can refer patients for a wider range of investigations, including MRIs, CT scans, and nerve conduction studies.

At QMC, our GPSI team includes:

• Dr Sonja Sparrow

• Dr Milne Simpson

• Dr Fiona McPherson

Note: A referral must be done to the GPSI doctor before the claim is accepted. This initial appointment can be with any doctor.

Eligibility criteria for GPSI referrals:

• Injury must be less than 12 months old

• Covers any injury site, not just knees or spine

• ACC must have accepted the claim before the referral is processed

Patients referred to the GPSI service are eligible for up to three funded appointments under ACC, including the MRI review.  

If you're unsure which pathway applies to your situation, your GP can guide you through the referral process. Both MRI options are designed to ensure timely access to imaging and specialist input, helping support recovery and informed treatment decisions.

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