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Does HealthEast Medical Imaging file secondary claims as well as primary ones?
Yes, we do.
I don't have medical insurance...Can I get a price quotation on my procedure?
If you do not have medical insurance and/or you are concerned about paying for your procedure, call HealthEast Medical Imaging. We'll give you an estimate and work with you in setting up a payment plan.
May I get a copy of my films?
Yes, call HealthEast Medical Imaging to request a copy of films.
How long does HealthEast Medical Imaging keep my records on file?
We maintain the films and reports from your exam(s) in accordance with state laws (in most cases for a minimum of five to seven years).
Will I need a driver?
Some procedures require a driver for your safety (i.e., if sedation or anesthetic are administered). When the appointment is made, you will be told if a driver is needed. Please make the necessary arrangements or let us know in advance so we can make arrangements for you.
Are there weight restrictions on certain exams?
In most cases, HealthEast Medical Imaging is successful in imaging patients of all body types.
How soon will I receive the results?
We fax a preliminary report to your doctor as soon as the radiologist reads your film, usually the same day. The full, transcribed report is sent to your doctor within 24 hours of your examination, usually sooner.
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MRI Questions
What is MRI?
MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. An MRI offers a safe and efficient method for medical diagnosis of many conditions, without the use of harmful x-rays. In many cases, MRI can lead to early detection and treatment of disease without surgery or biopsy. It is a non-invasive method of examining the soft tissue of the body including organs, muscles and tendons.
Is MRI safe?
The strength of the magnetic field and the frequency of the radio waves have no known harmful effects. There are some patients who may not be able to have an MRI test due to certain pacemakers or other metallic objects in the body. However, not all metallic or implanted devices prevent you from having an MRI. Consult your doctor or HealthEast Medical Imaging clarification.
Does my doctor need to refer me for an MRI?
In order to perform the study we need a referral from your physician. Your doctor will provide us with the necessary information to perform the most accurate study.
How do I prepare for an MRI Scan?
Generally, you will not have any restrictions on eating or drinking before your scan. Certain scans of the abdomen or pelvis might have restrictions. We have lockers and locking dressing rooms for your personal belongings, clothing, jewelry and other metallic items. Jewelry and other metallic items should be kept at a minimum because it might interfere with the scan. Clothing with zippers, hooks and snaps will need to be removed. We have gowns and scrubs for you to change into. If you prefer, you may wear your own sweats, shorts or other loose clothing.
What is Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA)?
This is a way to look at the blood vessels in the neck and brain and evaluate the characteristics of blood flow. In the neck, areas of irregularity or narrowing in the carotid arteries can be associated with symptoms of temporary blindness, weakness of the extremities, amnesia or loss of speech. Within the brain, MRA can be used to screen for the presence of vascular malformation, aneurysm and vasculitis.
What happens during an MRI Scan?
You will be asked to lie down on the scanning table, usually on your back. We will make you comfortable with the aid of pillows, blankets and sponges. An MRI coil is placed around the part of the body to be scanned. This acts as an antenna directing the magnetic energy to that area. You will be asked to lie still for the duration of the scan approximately 30 minutes. You will hear the faint knocking sound while the system is scanning.
What do I need to tell the technologist before the Scan?
Advise the technologist of any pacemaker, or other implanted devices in your body. Also make the technologist aware of any previous surgeries, including heart surgery for pacemaker or other implanted devices, brain surgery for aneurysm clips, back surgery, cochlear implants, pregnancy, history of working with metal, or in the metal trades.
Are there any people who can not, should not have an MRI?
MRI poses no danger to the majority of patients. Certain medical conditions will prevent someone from having an MRI. The strong magnetic field can cause disruption to internally placed devices such as pacemakers, heart valves, aneurysm clips.
Can my child have an MRI?
Yes. A parent may stay in the scan room with the child, and hold their hand during the scan. This is a great way to relieve any apprehension the child or the parent may have about the procedure.
May I have an MRI exam when I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
While an MRI scan has no known side effects, it is not recommended for pregnant women unless it is medically indicated. If you are breastfeeding and have contrast as part of your exam, please suspend nursing for 24 hours after the exam.
Why is the scanner so noisy?
The scanner works with strong magnetic fields, which builds up energy. The energy is released as loud knocking sounds. Earplugs are available. We provide an assortment of music to help you relax. You are welcome to bring your own CD or cassette. There is a two-way intercom providing communication between you and the technologist.
How is MRI different from a CT or an x-ray?
Unlike x-ray exams, MRI does not use ionizing (x-ray) radiation. Instead, MR creates high-quality images through the combination of a strong magnetic field and radio waves. MRI can detect certain diseases much earlier than other medical imaging techniques can, making it the diagnostic tool of choice for many physicians.
What body parts can the MRI scanner evaluate?
Physicians use the MRI scanner to examine one part of the body at a time. The scanner can take pictures of the head, neck, back, abdomen, pelvis, shoulder, elbow, knee, ankle, foot, blood vessels, and more.
How long does the exam take?
Exams take approximately 25 minutes or more depending on the body part being scanned. Please feel free to bring along your favorite tape or CD to help you relax during the exam.
Why is it so important to remove any metallic objects before I enter the scanning room?
You'll need to remove all metal objects for safety reasons and because they cause artifacts to appear on the MRI image.
Will there be a problem if I have had surgery in which metal has been implanted?
As a general rule, no. However, please be sure to inform your technologist of any prior surgeries before your exam. Patients with a pacemaker or certain types of aneurysm clips should not have an MRI.
What does the scanner look like?
The scanner is wide open on both ends, and well-lit and -ventilated throughout. It also has a nurse call button and two-way intercom system so that you can communicate with the technologist at all times.
Is there any risk?
MRI is very safe. There are no health risks associated with the magnetic field or the radio waves used by the machine nor have any side effects been reported.
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CT Questions
How long does the exam take?
A CT scan requires that you relax and lie still for 5-30 minutes.
What should I wear?
Wear clothing that is comfortable (i.e., sweat pants, t-shirt, shorts, etc.). It may be necessary for you to change into a patient gown depending on the area being scanned.
Are there any special preparations/restrictions?
If your exam requires a contrast dye to be used, please do not eat anything for 3 hours prior to the exam. Exams requiring contrast material include scans of the head, soft tissue, neck, chest, abdomen, and pelvis.
May I have a CT scan when I am breastfeeding?
If you have contrast as part of your exam, please suspend nursing for 24 hours after the scan.
Are barium sulphate studies painful?
No, but the volume of the barium can distend your abdomen and create a tight or cramping sensation. HealthEast Medical Imaging conducts procedures rapidly so that patients can evacuate the barium as quickly as possible to eliminate the discomfort.
How will I feel after the exam?
In most cases, you may resume normal activity immediately.
Can I take my prescribed medication?
Yes, for any CT exam, you may continue taking your prescribed medication(s), with the exception of diabetic medication.
Why does HealthEast Medical Imaging need to know a patient's creatinine level when scheduled for an exam requiring IV contrast?
The creatinine level shows whether the kidneys are functioning properly, thus protecting against renal failure.
The patient is pregnant. Can she have a CT exam?
Generally, any ionizing radiation exam is contraindicated for pregnant women. Under circumstances where the benefits outweigh the risks, CT scans of certain body parts may be allowed.
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Ultrasound Questions
If there are any ulcers in my stomach, can you see them?
No. Due to the intestinal gas (air) in the stomach and intestines, it’s hard to see these areas with ultrasound.
Why can’t I eat or drink anything before my abdomen ultrasound procedure?
When you eat, drink or even chew gum, you introduce air into the stomach and bowel. Sound waves do not penetrate air, making it harder to see target organs.
Why do I need to have a full bladder for a pelvic ultrasound procedure?
Sound waves travel more easily through liquids than through surrounding tissues and air. Consequently, a full bladder facilitates passage of sound waves through it, making the uterus and ovaries behind the bladder easier to see.
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