If you're navigating healthcare in Nova Scotia, one of the most important steps in your care journey can be booking diagnostic imaging in Halifax — whether it's an MRI, ultrasound, CT scan, or X-ray. In 2026 the process has become more digital and patient-centric than ever, with a range of platforms and tools designed to make scheduling easier, faster, and more transparent.

In this guide, we explore the top platforms and tools available today — from provincial eReferral systems and mobile apps to flexible online booking portals and convenient private imaging services. By the end, you’ll understand the best ways to manage your diagnostic imaging Halifax booking efficiently and with confidence.

1. Nova Scotia Health’s eReferral System — The Foundation of Diagnostic Imaging Booking

In recent years, Nova Scotia has modernized its referral and booking system through an electronic referral tool (eReferral) that allows healthcare providers to submit imaging requests digitally. This system replaces outdated paper or fax-based referrals, which were prone to delays and errors.

Why eReferral Matters

  • Referrals for MRI, ultrasound, CT, bone mineral density testing, fluoroscopy and more can be sent electronically.

  • It helps ensure your referral is complete and routed correctly to booking teams, reducing the risk of lost paperwork.

  • In some cases, patients can receive updates by email or phone once the referral reaches the booking stage.

The eReferral platform, based on the widely used OceanMD referral framework, is now considered the provincial standard and has been increasingly adopted since its rollout began in 2023.

How this helps you: Rather than wondering whether your requisition was received or where it’s in the queue, eReferral gives providers and patients a streamlined and trackable referral pathway — a key part of any diagnostic imaging Halifax booking strategy.

2. YourHealthNS — Mobile Access to Appointment Information & Records

The YourHealthNS app is another important digital tool in 2026 for anyone undergoing diagnostic testing in Nova Scotia. Originally launched to help patients access their health records online, the platform has expanded to include diagnostic imaging reports and appointment details.

What You Can Do on YourHealthNS

  • View confirmed appointments for imaging (e.g., MRI, CT, ultrasound).

  • Access completed imaging reports (including MRI and CT results) within a few weeks after processing.

  • Track details like study type, date, and imaging location — all from your mobile phone or browser.

While the app doesn’t directly schedule imaging appointments, it provides an essential way to stay informed once your booking has happened — a must-have for those managing their own diagnostic imaging Halifax booking journey.

3. Nova Scotia Health Booking Lines — Traditional but Still Essential

Although digital tools are reshaping the booking process, traditional phone support remains important, especially for patients with specific needs or questions.

Nova Scotia Health operates booking lines that can help with appointment scheduling, cancellations, or rescheduling for various diagnostic imaging services including MRIs, CT scans, ultrasounds, nuclear medicine, and more.

One key resource for rescheduling is the toll-free rescheduling line (1-844-I-REBOOK / 1-844-473-2665), which connects patients directly to support staff who can help manage changes to existing appointments.

When to Use Phone Support

  • You haven’t received booking details after your referral was submitted.

  • You need to cancel or reschedule a test.

  • You’re having viewing issues with online systems like YourHealthNS.

This remains an important complement to digital tools for completing a successful diagnostic imaging Halifax booking.

4. Online Booking Portals — Quick Access (Where Available)

While comprehensive scheduling for all diagnostic imaging types (like MRIs or ultrasounds) isn’t centrally open for self-booking, some services like X-rays have online appointment access through Nova Scotia Health’s booking portal: booking.nshealth.ca.

Benefits of Online Booking

  • Book at your convenience — 24/7 access without calling during business hours.

  • Search available slots across facilities if eligible online.

  • Offset long wait times by finding earlier slots if they appear.

Online portals add flexibility to the booking experience, and their presence in Halifax reflects the broader push toward hybrid digital access in healthcare services.

5. Private Imaging Clinics — Streamlined Scheduling Options

For patients who want an alternative to public wait times, private imaging clinics in Halifax have become valuable resources — especially for those prioritizing speed and convenience in diagnostic imaging Halifax booking.

Why Private Clinics Matter

Private providers offer timely booking options for services like MRI and ultrasound — often with shorter appointment waits than the public system. Two notable facilities serving the Halifax region include:

  • Why Wait Imaging – A private imaging provider offering MRI and ultrasound services designed to reduce wait times and provide a more personalized booking experience.

  • Healthview Medical Imaging – An established private imaging centre known for quick appointment access, patient-focused care, and flexible scheduling directly by phone or email.

While these private options may involve different cost structures, they often provide direct, responsive scheduling and can be particularly useful when long waits occur in the public system or when time-sensitive diagnostics are needed.

Tips for Smooth Diagnostic Imaging Booking in Halifax

Whether you’re using public eReferral tools or private imaging providers, here are essential tips to help ensure your diagnostic imaging Halifax booking process goes smoothly:

1. Ensure Accurate Referral Information

Ask your healthcare provider to include complete details — including preferred clinic locations and willingness to travel — to avoid delays when referrals are processed.

2. Provide Contact Email & Phone

If you consent to email updates during eReferral submissions, you may be notified faster when appointment details are confirmed.

3. Check YourHealthNS Regularly

Once your appointment is booked, the YourHealthNS app can help you track the confirmed time, location, and eventually access the imaging report.

4. Use Rescheduling Lines Early

If you need to change your appointment date quickly, the toll-free rescheduling service is a key tool for keeping your diagnostic imaging Halifax booking on track. 

Final Thoughts: Making Booking Easier in 2026

In 2026, booking diagnostic imaging in Halifax has become more accessible and connected through a combination of digital platforms, mobile tools, online portals, and thoughtfully designed phone support services. From eReferral systems that modernize how referrals are tracked, to private imaging clinics that offer alternate booking pathways, patients have more options than ever to take control of their care journey.

Understanding these tools — and how they fit into your personal needs — can make a critical difference in the speed and convenience of your diagnostic imaging Halifax booking experience.