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How to Prepare for Your Radiology Appointment: A Patient's Guide

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How to Prepare for Your Radiology Appointment: A Patient's Guide

February 15, 2026

Before You Arrive

A little preparation ensures your appointment runs smoothly and your images are as clear as possible. Here's what to know before you come in:

  • Make sure your order has been received: Your referring physician will provide a written order or electronic referral to us for your imaging study. You should receive a call, text, or email to schedule. If you don't, call us to confirm we've received your order.
  • Bring your insurance card and a photo ID.
  • Arrive *at least 15 minutes early to complete any necessary paperwork. Some exams may require you to be with us up to 2 hours early if you are drinking contrast. Please review your personalized instructions and listen carefully to our care team.
  • List your medications: Bring a list of current prescriptions and supplements, especially if you're scheduled for a scan with contrast.
  • Prior imaging: If you have relevant prior imaging from another facility, bring the disc or request that records be sent ahead of time.

What to Wear

Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing without metal snaps, underwires, or zippers in the area being imaged. For certain studies, you may be asked to change into a gown, which we always have available.

Leave jewelry, piercings, and accessories at home when possible, or plan to remove them and place them in one of our secure lockers before your scan.

Study-Specific Preparation

  • MRI: Inform our staff of any implanted devices and their model number during scheduling (pacemakers, metal joint replacements, cochlear implants). Most modern implants are MRI-safe, but we verify before every scan. If you have your implant card, please bring it with you.
  • CT with contrast: You may be asked to fast for a few hours and have a blood test to check kidney function beforehand.
  • Ultrasound (abdominal): You will typically be asked to fast for 4–6 hours before the exam.

During Your Appointment

Our technologists are trained to make you as comfortable as possible throughout your exam. Let them know immediately if you feel any pain, discomfort, or anxiety. We can often adjust positioning or pace to help.

Most imaging studies take between 15 and 60 minutes. You'll be informed of the expected duration when you schedule.

Getting Your Results

A board-certified radiologist will review your images and prepare a written report, typically within 24–48 hours. Results are sent directly to your referring physician, who will review them with you at your follow-up visit. If your study requires urgent attention, your physician will be notified promptly.

Questions about your results? Contact your referring physician's office. They are your primary point of contact for interpreting your imaging findings in the context of your overall health.