Abstract: A patient bed for use with an NMR scanner utilizes a surface extending into the RF coil having a plurality of valves projecting therefrom which vent pressurized air when depressed. A patient bed, disposed over the surface, depresses the valves therebelow, engendering a cushion of air under the bed. The bed is selectively positioned in and out of the examination region via a sprocket-driven perforated belt which engages a sprocket on the bed. In a second embodiment, the bed is supported by a cushion of air on a vertically adjustable pedestal which is placed adjacent an NMR scanner which also provides a cushion of air for supporting the bed which is moved from the pedestal to the scanner and thereafter returned to the pedestal. Methods in accordance with the apparatus of the present invention are also disclosed.