WHAT IS AN X-RAY?

X-ray imaging (also called radiography) is the oldest and still the most commonly used technique in radiology. To take an x-ray, a part of the body is exposed to a very small amount of x-rays to produce pictures of inside your body. An x-ray can be used on almost every part of the body to examine your bones.

WHY SHOULD I HAVE AN X-RAY?

This is a very easy and simple test that can help your doctor to see your chest, abdomen, elbow, knee, shoulder, ankle, or other body part.

This test requires an order from your doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant. X-ray exams are done as walk-ins and you do not need to schedule your exam.

ORDERS, SCHEDULING, AND INSURANCE - WHAT DO I DO BEFORE THE EXAM?

• An order is required for all x-ray exams
• We do not schedule x-ray exams. You can walk in at any time for your exam, just be sure to bring your written order, insurance information, and a photo ID
• Call your insurance prior to your exam to determine any coverage restrictions or limitations
• Call your insurance prior to your exam to determine any prior authorization or notification requirements
• You can find more information on billing here: BILLING

EXAM PREPARATION - WHAT DO I DO BEFORE THE EXAM?

• Read over our “Preparing for Your Imaging Exam“ page
• Wear warm and comfortable clothes with no metal, for example: no zippers, buttons, or grommets.
• Avoid wearing jewelry or other metal accessories as they will need to be removed prior to your exam.
• There are no eating/drinking restrictions.
• There are no Medication restrictions, but it’s always a good idea to bring your list of Medications with you to your imaging exam.
• If you are pregnant and/or breast feeding, or could possibly be pregnant, please let us know and call your ordering Dr for a pregnancy test prior to coming in for your exam.

If you have any questions, please call our office at 309-743-0445.

HOW LONG WILL THE EXAM TAKE?

The test takes less than 20 minutes to complete. Since this is a walk-in exam there may be a wait time if people arrived before you.

WHAT WILL THE EXAM BE LIKE?

You may be asked to change into a gown and remove any jewelry. You will be escorted to the exam room and the technologist will position the body part to be examined. Several different pictures will be taken of your body part.

WHAT HAPPENS WITH MY TEST RESULTS?

One of our specially trained Radiologists will study the images of your test and send a final written report to your ordering provider (doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant) within 24-48 hours, unless prior imaging is needed for your exam, in which case it may take longer.

Your ordering provider can then discuss the results with you in detail. If you want to discuss your results you will need to contact your ordering provider. Every Provider’s office has different procedures and turnaround time for discussing results of exams. Our staff is not able to discuss the specifics of the results with you or give you a diagnosis.

WHAT IF I HAVE FURTHER QUESTIONS?

If you have any further questions or concerns about this procedure, please contact our office at 309-743-0445 or call your doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant.