What is an X-ray scan?
An X-ray examination – also referred to as a computed radiograph, digital radiograph or radiograph – is a diagnostic imaging technique where low levels of X-ray radiation produced by a shielded X-ray tube pass through the body. A detector or film is positioned on the far side of the body. The X-ray image created by the detector displays internal structures including bones, stones, and body parts containing air such as the lung and bowel.
AdelaideMRI offers X-ray scans at each of our practice locations.
What are X-ray scans used for?
X-rays are often used to examine problems in the bones, joints and chest, and thereby diagnose injury or disease.
How do I prepare for an X-ray scan?
Please bring your doctor’s X-ray scan request form, your Medicare card and any previous X-rays, scans, reports and films each time you visit us. While preparation varies with the type of examination, most X-ray examinations do not require any preparation. Our friendly staff will advise you of any preparation is required when you make your appointment. You are welcome to ask questions regarding your examination at any time.
What happens during an X-ray scan?
A typical X-ray examination takes 15-20 minutes. We will check your name and date of birth prior to your examination. In the X-ray room, the radiographer (a medical imaging technician) will explain the examination procedure to you. You will either sit or lie down on a bed, where you will be positioned to obtain the correct images on the X-ray plate. These scans are then transferred into a computer for image printing and reporting.
You will not experience any discomfort during the examination. The radiographer is responsible for acquiring the images, which interpreted and reported by the radiologist. You will be asked to sign a Medicare bulk-bill form when the examination is complete.
Is X-ray scanning a safe process?
By referring you for an X-ray scan, your doctor has decided that the medical benefit to you is much greater than any small risk posed by exposure to diagnostic X-rays. X-rays are a naturally occurring type of radiation. While X-rays are classified as a carcinogen, the scientific and health industry consensus is that the benefits of X-rays far outweigh any potential negative outcomes.
If you are pregnant, you must let our staff know before the examination.
How much does an X-ray scan cost?
We bulk bill all Medicare-eligible X-ray scans as part of our commitment to providing affordable and accessible healthcare. Bulk billing means there is no gap payment and no unexpected out-of-pocket expense. Please check if your scan is Medicare-eligible when booking. The Medicare schedule has very specific guidelines about which examinations are eligible.
It is your choice where to have your X-ray scan. Call us for an appointment with any referring doctor’s imaging request form.
Sometimes your doctor may require traditional large-format plastic images (‘hard films’). If so, let us know and we will print plastic images for you – a small charge of $20 applies for these copies.
Fees apply where an X-ray scan is not Medicare-eligible. Please ask our reception staff when booking.
What happens to my X-ray scan results?
Your scan results are treated with strict confidentiality. Our radiologist or technician will talk to you before, during and after the examination and can explain the X-ray images we produce, but may not be able to give you precise information about your condition prior to the finalisation of a written report. A second radiologist may review your scan images. AdelaideMRI will issue your final report within the next 48 hours and send the results to your referring doctor with instructions for digital access of the images. As the images are digital, they are stored on our computer system for future reference. You should always discuss the results with your doctor.
