When a doctor needs more information to investigate an injury, symptom or medical condition, they may provide a referral for medical imaging. These services are available through private radiology clinics, specialist imaging centres and many public and private hospitals. The most appropriate facility will depend on the type of examination required, the urgency of the referral, location, availability and whether specialised equipment or expertise is needed.
For suspected fractures, chest conditions and certain joint or bone problems, xray imaging is one of the most commonly requested examinations. X-rays are available at many radiology clinics and hospital imaging departments and can usually be completed relatively quickly. A radiographer performs the examination, while the resulting images are generally interpreted by a radiologist who prepares a report for the referring healthcare professional.
Private Radiology Clinics
Private radiology clinics are a common option for patients who have received an imaging referral from a GP or specialist. Depending on the clinic, services may include X-rays, ultrasound, CT, MRI, mammography and bone density examinations.
Some examinations require appointments, while certain clinics may accept walk-in patients for basic X-rays. Patients should contact the clinic beforehand to confirm availability, costs, preparation requirements and whether their referral is accepted.
Imaging at Hospitals
Public and private hospitals also have medical imaging departments. Hospital imaging is particularly important for emergency situations, inpatients and people requiring specialised examinations as part of ongoing medical treatment.
Emergency departments can arrange appropriate imaging when a scan is medically necessary as part of emergency care. For non-emergency imaging, patients will generally follow the referral and booking process advised by their doctor or hospital.
Specialist Imaging Centres
Some facilities concentrate on particular areas of diagnostic imaging. For example, dedicated breast imaging centres may provide mammography and breast ultrasound, while other clinics may specialise in musculoskeletal, cardiac or neurological imaging.
A specialist may recommend a particular facility when an examination requires specific equipment or expertise. Patients with complex medical conditions may also have multiple examinations performed at the same centre so results can be considered together.
Choosing an Imaging Provider
Convenience is important, but it should not be the only consideration when choosing where to have a scan. Patients can consider the services available, appointment times, accessibility, costs and whether the provider has the appropriate equipment for the requested examination.
It is also worth checking fees before attending. Depending on the examination, provider and patient’s eligibility, Medicare may cover some or all of the cost in Australia. Other examinations may involve an out-of-pocket expense.
Preparing for an Appointment
Preparation varies according to the type of scan. A basic X-ray may require little preparation, whereas an ultrasound could require fasting or arriving with a full bladder. CT and MRI examinations may involve additional screening or preparation, particularly when contrast material is required.
Patients should bring their referral and any other information requested by the imaging provider. Previous scans may also be useful when radiologists need to compare changes over time.
After an examination, the images are reviewed and a report is usually provided to the referring healthcare professional. The doctor can then explain the findings and determine whether treatment, further testing or follow-up is required.
Medical imaging is available through a broad network of hospitals, radiology practices and specialist centres across Australia. Following the referral instructions and choosing a facility that provides the required examination can help ensure the imaging process is efficient and the results reach the appropriate healthcare professional.