BackgroundOne of the major challenges facing global radiology services comes from delays connected to long waiting lists for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) procedures. Such delays in diagnostic procedures could lead to poorer patient care outcomes. This study intended to estimate the rate of “No-Shows” or “Reschedule” MRI appointments. We also investigated the factors correlating No-Shows and Reschedule MRI appointments.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted in Saudi Arabia using data obtained via MRI schedule reviews and self-administrated questionnaires. Clinical and demographic data were also collected from the study participants. Stepwise binary logistic regression was used to analyze the data.ResultsA total of 904 outpatients were asked to participate in the study, and we enrolled 121 outpatients who agreed to complete the study questionnaire. Of the 904 outpatients, the rate of No-Shows or Reschedule was 34.8% (95% Confidence Interval: 31.7–38.1%). Of the 121 outpatients studied, the rate of No-Shows or Reschedule was 49.6% (95% CI: 40.4–58.8%). Those of the female gender (OR = 6.238; 95% CI: 2.674–14.551, p-value = 0.001) and lack of education (OR = 2.799; 95% CI: 1.121–6.986, p-value = 0.027) were highly associated with No-Shows for the MRI appointments. There was no clarification of the MRI instructions (OR = 31.396; 95% CI: 3.427–287.644; p-value = 0.002), and family member drivers (OR = 15.530; 95% CI: 2.637–91.446, p-value = 0.002) were highly associated with rescheduling the MRI appointments.ConclusionsWe noted higher rates of No-Shows and Rescheduling of MRI appointments in females, those with a lack of formal education, those who had not received the procedure instructions, and those who lacked transportation. We recommend setting targets and developing strategies and policies to improve more timely access to MRI, and thus reduce the waiting time.Electronic supplementary materialThe online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12913-016-1927-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.