What is an X-Ray?
An X-Ray (radiograph) is a special image that uses radiation to create pictures of bones and other internal tissues in your body. AMI uses state-of-the-art digital X-Ray equipment, resulting in a reduced amount of radiation for excellent image quality.
Do I need to prepare for my X-Ray?
A basic X-Ray does not require any special preparation. Metal objects such as watches, keys, coins, and jewellery will show up on the X-Ray. This can affect the images, so they will need to be removed before your X-Ray. You may be provided with a gown to wear instead of your own clothes, as some materials and prints will show up on the X-Ray.
What happens during an X-Ray?
You will be asked to stand or lie down in different positions that allow the best digital image of the body part of interest. During the X-Ray, you will be asked to remain as still as possible or hold your breath to improve the quality of the images. As is the case with a regular photograph, any movement will appear blurry and may require the X-Ray to be repeated. There are no after-effects from a general X-Ray. You will be able to go about your normal activities immediately following your X-Ray.
It only takes a few minutes to X-Ray each body part. You may need to wait while the images are reviewed by an AMI Radiologist to see if any further images are required.
Are there any risks associated with an X-Ray?
Having an X-Ray will expose your body to a very low level of radiation. However, health experts have determined that X-Rays present minimal risk to your health and that this risk is outweighed by the benefits of your having an X-Ray. No radiation remains in your body after an X-Ray. If you are pregnant or think that you may be pregnant, tell your doctor and AMI staff, as x-rays can potentially affect an unborn baby.
How much will my X-Ray cost?
All X-Rays are bulk billed (no out of pocket expense to the patient) to Medicare, provided all Medicare eligibility requirements have been met. We accept walk-in appointments for this service.
After your X-Ray, your report and images will be sent electronically to your doctor.
Please advise our friendly staff if you are, or think you may be, pregnant.
Please bring your referral, Medicare and Pension Health Care Cards with any previous imaging relating to the region being scanned. You may be required to remove jewellery and clothing that contain zips or metal objects, as these items can interfere with the X-ray quality.
It will depend on what area you are having X-rayed for an exact description of the procedure. However, generally;
You may be asked to change into a gown. Depending on which area you are having examined, you may be asked to lie on a table, stand or sit.
It is very important you remain still while your X-ray is taken.
From 10-15 minutes depending on the region requested.
There are no restrictions after having a Digital X-ray.
After your examination, the most pertinent images from your study will be available on the myAMI patient portal. A report, along with the images will be sent directly to your referring doctor. AMI will store digital copies of all studies on your secure database for comparison with any future examinations
**Please bring any previous X-rays with you.
