How To Prepare For A Radiology Exam
Radiology is a medical technology that has helped millions identify potential problems. If you're preparing to visit a radiology services provider, it's a good idea to do these 5 things to make the visit go better.
Contact
Even if you're sure you have the appointment squared away, it's a good idea to make sure your contact information is up-to-date. You should also try to have multiple points of contact, including an email address or a second phone number. Ask a friend or family member to be an alternate contact, too.
If there are any changes to your appointment time, a member of the staff at the radiology practice will contact you and sort things out. Likewise, they'll make a confirmation call usually between 24 and 72 hours before the scheduled visit.
Scheduling
Make sure the time for your appointment is open. Generally, visits take less than an hour. However, you should plan for an hour to ensure you'll have some room for delays or additional work.
Set your appointment for a time that's comfortable. If at all possible, schedule it so you can show up 15 minutes early. This will provide time to do paperwork, especially if you haven't visited the practice before. Also, showing up with some time to spare will help you to be relaxed and ready for the session.
Insurance Coverage
You'll want to clarify with your insurance provider that the radiology screening is covered. Inform them of the specific exam type, and also tell them which practice will handle it.
Don't assume that the doctor's office will know if your insurer covers the exam. Contact your medical insurance provider to confirm their willingness to cover it.
Food and Drinks
The type of exam will determine whether you should refrain from food and drinks before the visit. Some exams, such as ones for urological issues, require you to consume drinks a certain number of hours before you go to the office. Always discuss these issues with someone at the radiology services practice beforehand. They can tell you what the requirements or limits are for consuming food and drinks before you come there.
Keep Your Expectations Measured
The point of using radiology to image a person's internal issues is to find things out. However, the radiologist won't have answers that day. They'll send the imagery and analysis to your physician, and your practitioner will then discuss the results with you at your next appointment.
When you're ready for a radiology exam, find a hospital, like Elkview General Hospital, near you to schedule an appointment.