Arranging a scan for your parents in Nepal from abroad

Millions of Nepalis work or live abroad and look after parents' health from a distance. This is how to arrange an MRI, CT or other scan in Kathmandu without being there yourself.

Step by step

1. Start with a doctor in Nepal. A scan needs a doctor's request and someone to act on the result. If your parent does not have a regular doctor, a hospital outpatient (OPD) visit is the usual first step.
2. Ask what the scan is for. What question will it answer, and will the result change the treatment? This helps avoid tests that are not needed.
3. Compare prices before the day. Our price list shows what each test costs on published hospital rate lists. As a guide, a brain MRI averages NPR 9,500, a plain CT head NPR 4,200 and an abdominal ultrasound NPR 1,050.
4. Choose the centre. Government and teaching hospitals are cheaper but can mean long waits; private centres are faster but cost more. Compare the options.
5. Confirm in writing. Ask for the full price including contrast, film and the radiologist's report, the preparation (fasting, kidney test), and when the report will be ready.
6. Arrange who goes with them. A relative or trusted helper should go along, especially for MRI with contrast or sedation.
7. Collect everything. The signed report, the images on CD or USB, and the receipt. Ask whether the hospital can share the report online.

Paying from abroad

Most families send money to a relative in Nepal through a bank or licensed remittance service, and the relative pays at the hospital in rupees. Some private hospitals accept cards or advance payment from abroad; ask before relying on it. Keep the receipt.

Second opinions

If you want a doctor where you live to look at the result, you need the full images (DICOM on CD or USB), not just photos of the report. Ask for these on the day. What to ask for.

Coming soon: 10% off at selected partner centres

We are agreeing terms with a small number of partner centres so that you can request a voucher for your parent's scan here and get 10% off their price. The discount will apply only at those centres.