When a patient needs an MRI scan, they assume that their doctor will guide them to the most affordable and best-quality option.
However, in many cases, doctors mislead patients by forcing them to choose specific diagnostic centers where they receive commissions, even though the same MRI can be done at a much lower price elsewhere.

Today, we’ll be the whistleblowers, and show you how doctors are fooling patients in the name of quality MRI in Lucknow.
The Reality of MRI Costs in Lucknow
The cost of an MRI in Lucknow varies significantly depending on the center. Some reputed diagnostic centers charge anywhere from ₹4,500 to ₹6,000, while other lesser-known centers provide the same scan for as low as ₹2,600 to ₹3,800 with no compromise in quality.
Despite this, many doctors insist that patients visit only certain high-priced centers, claiming they provide “better quality” or “more accurate results.” In reality, this is just a way for doctors to earn commissions from these centers.
Real Incidents Where Patients Were Trapped
Case of Mr. Gupta
Mr. Gupta, a resident of Hazratganj, Lucknow, called us and inquired about MRI pricing and found a reliable option for ₹2,800. However, when he informed his doctor, he was strictly told to go to a particular center charging ₹4,650. The doctor dismissed his suggestion, saying the cheaper center’s reports “may not be clear enough.” Feeling pressured, Mr. Gupta had no choice but to pay the higher amount.
Incident of Mrs. Anjum
Mrs. Anjum needed an MRI for her knee pain and found that we’re offering the scan for ₹3,000. However, when she informed her doctor, she was told that if she did not get the scan from the specific center recommended (which charged ₹4,810), he would not accept the report. She later discovered that her doctor had a commission arrangement with the high-priced center.
What to Do If This Happens to You?
If your doctor tries to force you to choose a specific MRI center despite knowing cheaper alternatives are available, here’s what you should do:
- Do Not Ask the Doctor Where to Get the MRI Done
- Instead of relying on the doctor’s recommendation, do your own research. Call different diagnostic centers, compare prices, and check reviews before choosing one.
- Change the Doctor
- If a doctor is prioritizing their commission over your financial well-being, it’s a red flag. If they are doing this for an MRI, they might also push unnecessary treatments in the future. Find a doctor who prioritizes your health, not their profits.
- Raise a Complaint and Post on X (formerly Twitter)
- If you feel exploited, raise your voice. Post about your experience on social media, tagging relevant authorities such as the Medical Council of India, Health Ministry, and local regulatory bodies. Awareness can help stop this unethical practice.

Why MRI Lucknow Stands Apart?
At MRI Lucknow, we strongly believe in providing affordable and ethical healthcare services. We understand that medical expenses can be a burden, and our goal is to ensure that high-quality diagnostics are accessible to everyone without unnecessary financial pressure.
Unlike many high-priced diagnostic centers that collaborate with doctors for commissions, we focus solely on patient care. Our rates are transparent, significantly lower than many big-name centers, but we never compromise on quality. We use state-of-the-art MRI machines and employ highly trained radiologists to ensure accurate results.
Some might wonder how we sustain ourselves at lower prices. The answer is simple:
- We operate efficiently, minimizing unnecessary expenses.
- We serve a larger volume of patients, allowing us to maintain affordability without cutting corners.
- We prioritize ethical practices, believing that medical care should never be about maximizing profits at the cost of someone’s well-being.
While we might not make excessive profits like some commission-based centers, we ensure that patients receive high-quality diagnostics without being exploited. We refuse to make money out of someone’s misery and are committed to being a patient-first diagnostic center.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find affordable MRI centers in Lucknow?
You can search online, check local forums, or ask independent diagnostic centers for pricing. Comparing multiple options will help you find the best deal.
Will a lower-cost MRI have lower quality?
Not necessarily. Most MRI centers use similar machines, and the quality depends more on the technician’s expertise rather than just the price.
What if my doctor refuses to accept an MRI report from another center?
If a doctor insists on reports only from a specific center, it is a clear sign of financial interest. In such a case, seek a second opinion from another doctor.
Can I report a doctor for forcing me to choose a particular MRI center?
Yes, you can report unethical medical practices to the Indian Medical Association (IMA) or local health authorities.
Is it common for doctors to take commissions from diagnostic centers?
Unfortunately, yes. While not all doctors do this, it is a widespread issue in the healthcare industry.
Final Words
Your health should never be compromised for someone else’s profit. Be aware, do your own research, and don’t hesitate to change doctors if you feel pressured into unnecessary expenses. By exposing these unethical practices, we can ensure a fair healthcare system where patients get what they truly need, not what benefits the doctor financially.
At MRI Lucknow, we stand by ethical practices, affordability, and patient-centric care. Our mission is to provide high-quality MRI scans at reasonable prices, ensuring that no patient has to overpay for essential diagnostics. Choose wisely, stay informed, and never let anyone take advantage of your health concerns.

I’m Insha Naim – the co-founder and managing director of MRI Lucknow and a neurophysiotherapist at Physio and Rehab Centre in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.
I love helping people regain their mobility and improve their well-being. Whether I’m leading my team at MRI Lucknow or working directly with patients, I’m dedicated to providing personalized and compassionate care.