Diagnostic Health Corporation
Frequently Asked Questions - FAQ
- Bone Density
- CT
- Diagnostic Injections & Pain Management Procedures
- Mammography
- Medical Records
- MRI
- Nuclear Medicine
- Open MRI
- Payment
- PET/CT
- Scheduling
- Ultrasound
- X-Ray
Medical Records
Q. MEDICAL RECORDS - Can I get a copy of my films?
A. DHC provides films/CDs to your physician as requested. If you need an additional copy, there may be a nominal charge. Please contact the sites respective medical records department for more information.
Q. MEDICAL RECORDS - How long does DHC keep my records on file?
A. DHC’s current policy is to maintain films and reports associated with your exam(s) for ten years (in most cases, this exceeds federal and state statutte requirements).
Back to TopPayment
Q. PAYMENT - What do I need to bring with me to facilitate the payment process?
A. We will need your complete insurance information, including your insurance card, ID number, and group number. In addition, for workers’ compensations claims and automobile injuries, bring your claim number, the date of injury and the name and address of the claims adjustment company.
Q. PAYMENT - Do I need preauthorization from my health care policy or plan?
A. If an authorization is needed, DHC (on behalf of your physician) obtains an authorization prior to your visit. Some sites, due to state statute or insurance constraints are not allowed to provide this service for physicians. DHC encourages you to be familiar with your respective insurance plan.
Q. PAYMENT - I don’t have medical insurance. Can I get a price quotation on my procedure?
A. If you do not have medical insurance and/or you are concerned about paying for your procedure, you can call the site you plan to visit for your exam. They can give you an estimate and inform you of payment options.
Q. PAYMENT - Does DHC file secondary claims as well as primary ones?
A. Yes
Back to TopScheduling
Q. SCHEDULING - Will I need a driver?
A. Some procedures will require a driver for your safety (i.e., if sedation or anesthetic are administered). You will be instructed if a driver is required during the appointment scheduling process.
Q. SCHEDULING - I’m coming from out of town. Where can I spend the night?
A. With 24 hours’ advance notice, DHC will be happy to recommend nearby accommodations for out-of-town patients.
Q. SCHEDULING - How soon can I book an appointment with DHC? Can I fit my appointment into my work schedule?
A. Many of our centers offer extended hours, including early mornings, evenings and weekends. In many cases, we can schedule you the same day you call for an appointment. Our goal is to schedule your appointment at the most convenient time for you.
Back to TopImaging Procedures & Preparation
Q. IMAGING PROCEDURES & PREPARATION - Why do I need to be at the center before my exam time?
A. It’s necessary for you to arrive early in order to complete your paperwork and prepare for your exam.
Q. IMAGING PROCEDURES & PREPARATION - Why do I need to bring my previous scan or x-rays?
A. Our radiologists will want to compare those studies to the new scan.
Q. IMAGING PROCEDURES & PREPARATION - What type of clothing should I wear for my exam?
A. Wear comfortable, metal-free clothing (i.e., sweat pants, T-shirt, shorts, metal-free bra, etc.). It may be necessary to have you change into a gown or scrubs depending on the exam and the area being scanned. Secure lockers will be provided for your personal belongings.
Q. IMAGING PROCEDURES & PREPARATION - What if I still have questions after reviewing this Web site?
A. There will be time for a qualified technologist to answer all of your questions before the exam begins. We also invite you to call your local center with any immediate questions or concerns.
Back to TopBone Density
Q. Bone Density- How is the procedure conducted?
A. Bone Density is a fast, painless, non-invasive test, which is completed in approximately 15 minutes. During a Bone Density exam, the patient lies fully clothed on a padded table. Like other diagnostic tests, Bone Density uses X-rays; however, the amount of radiation required is less than a mammogram. During a Bone Density, Bone Mineral Density (BMD) is measured at both the spine and hip since bone mineralization is not uniform throughout your body. Therefore, while some skeletal sites may be normal, others may be osteoporotic and prone to fractures. Such discordance between the BMD of the spine and hip is common in one third of patients, making it important to measure both sites.
Q. Bone Density - How do I prepare for the exam?
A. Preparation for this appointment is minimal. Please wear comfortable clothing with no metal zippers, buttons or buckles of any kind. You will be asked to remove any jewelry or metal items, such as watches or glasses, before the exam. A brief medical history may be taken; this may include a family history of osteoporosis, history of medications taken, fracture and menopausal history. Let us know if you are pregnant, or think you may be.
Q. Bone Density - What do the test results mean?
A. Your BMD is directly related to fracture risk. The higher the BMD, the lower your risk for fracture. Bone density results are compared to individuals in your age group and reported as a “Z score.” A comparison is also made to normal young individuals and is described as a “T score.”
Osteoporosis is defined as a BMD T score of -2.5 and below, even if you have not had fractures, and is normally an indication for treatment. A normal T score is -1 or greater. Osteopenia (low bone mineral density, but not yet osteoporotic) is defined as a T score which lies between -1 and -2.5. If you have low bone mass, your physician can discuss with you other risk factors of osteoporosis and determine whether or not you should consider treatment to prevent osteoporosis.
Q. Bone Density - Who interprets the results of my BONE DENSITY?
A. A DHC radiologist will interpret your scan results. A detailed report of your bone mineral density assessment will be sent directly to your physician with recommendations for the appropriate management.
Back to TopCT
Q. CT - What body parts can the CT scanner evaluate?
A. CT is used to study many areas of the body, including the: head, sinus cavity, chest, abdomen, urinary tract, liver, pancreas, gallbladder and renal arteries. CT scans are used for imaging small, detailed boney anatomy as well as vessels, including the coronary arteries in the heart.
Q. CT - How long does the exam take?
A. A CT scan can take anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the type of exam.
Q. CT - What should I wear?
A. Wear clothing that is comfortable and does not have metal in it(e.g., sweat pants, t-shirt, shorts, etc., no zippers or metallic buttons). It may be necessary for you to change into scrubs or a gown depending on the specific procedure and the area being scanned.
Q. CT - Are there any special preparations/restrictions?
A. A DHC associate will provide specific instructions at the time of scheduling.
Q. CT - How will I feel after the exam?
A. In most cases, you may resume normal activity immediately after a CT exam.
Q. CT - Can I take my prescribed medication?
A. Yes, for most CT exams, you may continue taking your prescribed medication(s), with the exception of Glucophage/Metformin diabetic medication. Glucophage/Metformin can be taken on the day of the examination but should not be taken for 48 hours after the examination.
Q. CT - Can I have a CT scan when I am breastfeeding?
A. Yes, however if contrast is part of your exam, please suspend breastfeeding for 24 hours after the scan; however you should continue using your breastfeeding pump and to expel breast milk for 24 hours after your examination.
Back to TopX-Ray
Q. X-ray (Fluoroscopy) - Are barium sulphate enema studies painful?
A. The volume of the barium can distend your abdomen and create a tight or cramping sensation. DHC conducts procedures rapidly so that patients can evacuate the barium as quickly as possible and eliminate any discomfort.
Q. X-ray - Are x-rays safe?
A. The very low radiation dosage in x-rays, as well as in CT scans, fluoroscopy, and tomography imaging, makes them extremely safe diagnostic tests.
Q. X-ray - Are there any special preparations/restrictions for x-ray exams?
A. Generally, no preparation is required. However, if your exam requires a contrast material, some preparation may be necessary. Instructions will be given at the time of scheduling.
Back to TopMRI
Q. MRI - What does MRI stand for?
A. Magnetic Resonance Imaging.
Q. MRI - How is MRI different from a CT or an x-ray?
A. Unlike x-ray exams, MRI does not use ionizing (x-ray) radiation. Instead, MRI creates high-quality images through the combination of a high-strength magnetic field, radio waves and a special computer.
Q. MRI - What body parts can the MRI scanner evaluate?
A. In general, physicians use the MRI scanner to examine one area 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. MRI is particularly good at distinguishing soft tissues such as imaging the brain, spinal cord and joint structures.
Q. MRI - How long does the exam take?
A. Exams can take approximately 25 minutes or more, depending on the area being scanned. The time is broken up into “scan sequences” that can last from 2 to 6 minutes each.
Q. MRI - Why is it so important to remove any metallic objects before I enter the MRI scanning room?
A. MRIs create pictures by using a strong magnetic field combined with radio waves. Because of this magnetic field, it’s important that you remove all metal and alert DHC associate during scheduling of prior surgeries and/or the presence of electrical or metallic objects in your body. Standard dental work is fine.
Q. MRI - Will there be a problem if I have had surgery in which metal has been implanted?
A. Please be sure to inform your technologist of any prior surgeries prior to your exam. Patients with a pacemaker or certain types of aneurysm clips should not have an MRI.
Q. MRI - What does the scanner look like?
A. The appearance of the scanner depends on a number of variables including the type of scanner and the manufacturer. In general, our high-field, short-bore scanners resemble a large tube. A table lies inside the opening of the tube, called the bore. You will lie on the table and it will slowly move into the bore where the images are captured.
Q. MRI - Is there any risk?
A. 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.
Q. MRI - May I have an MRI exam when I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
A. 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.
Q. MRI - Why is the scanner so noisy?
A. The scanner works with strong magnetic fields, which builds up energy. The energy is released as loud knocking and buzzing sounds. Your center will offer headphones to minimize the noise.
Back to TopMammography
Q. MAMMOGRAPHY - Is mammography painful?
A. During the exam, your breast is gradually pressed against the platform by a clear plastic plate. Pressure is applied for a few seconds to spread out the breast tissue. The pressure isn't harmful, but you may find it uncomfortable or even painful. Taking an over-the-counter pain medication, such as aspirin, acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others), about an hour before your mammogram might ease the discomfort of the test. If you have too much discomfort, inform the technologist.
Q. MAMMOGRAPHY - Why shouldn’t I wear deodorant?
A. Deodorant can show up on the films as micro-calcifications. This could necessitate taking additional unnecessary films.
Q. MAMMOGRAPHY - How often should I have a mammogram?
A. According to the American Cancer Society, yearly mammograms are recommended starting at age 40 and continuing for as long as a woman is in good health. Clinical breast exam should be part of a periodic health exam, about every 3 years for women in their 20s and 30s and every year for women 40 and over. Women should know how their breasts normally feel and report any breast change promptly to their health care providers. Breast self-exam is an option for women starting in their 20s. Women at high risk (greater than 20% lifetime risk) should get an MRI and a mammogram every year. Women at moderately increased risk (15% to 20% lifetime risk) should talk with their doctors about the benefits and limitations of adding MRI screening to their yearly mammogram. Yearly MRI screening is not recommended for women whose lifetime risk of breast cancer is less than 15%.
Q. MAMMOGRAPHY - Can people with really small breasts have mammograms?
A. Yes. In fact, mammography is not limited to just females. Men also get lumps and breast cancer, although it is rare.
Back to TopNuclear Medicine
Q. NUCLEAR MEDICINE - How long will this exam take?
A. Some exams require a tracer injection a few hours prior to the actual scan. The nuclear medicine scan itself takes approximately 30 to 120 minutes.
Q. NUCLEAR MEDICINE - Where will the injection be given?
A. Prior to your exam, you will be comfortably seated in a private exam room. The DHC technologist will talk you through the injection which will be given in a vein in your arm.
Q. NUCLEAR MEDICINE - May I eat or drink beforehand?
A. For most scans, no preparation is required. If you are having a bone scan, drink plenty of water the day before and the day of your scan. If required, a DHC associate will provide specific instructions at the time of scheduling.
Q. NUCLEAR MEDICINE - How long will the tracer stay in my body?
A. In most nuclear medicine exams the tracer will be excreted through your urine within 24 hours. If you have delayed imaging, your technologist will provide you with more information on tracer amounts and radiation.
Q. NUCLEAR MEDICINE - Are there any side effects?
A. Side effects or adverse reactions are very rare. You will not feel anything from the injected radioisotope itself.
Back to TopOpen MRI
Q. OPEN MRI - What does an Open MRI look like?
A. When you lie in an Open scanner, the magnet is above and below you, but it will be open on the sides.
Back to TopPET/CT
Q. PET/CT - What does PET/CT stand for?
A. PET stands for Positron Emission Tomography, CT stands for Computed Tomography.
Q. PET/CT - What is PET/CT?
A. A PET/CT scan is the combination of a PET scan which provides metabolic detail (cellular activity of a tumor, mass, etc.) and a CT scan which provides anatomical detail (size and exact location of the tumor, mass, etc.). PET/CT can provide important information about many conditions, including several different cancers.
Q. PET/CT - What makes PET/CT different?
A. PET/CT enables our radiologists to provide accurate diagnoses to guide treatment by simultaneously obtaining and merging anatomical (size and location of the tumor or mass) and functional (cellular activity of a mass or tumor) data.
Q. PET/CT - How does PET/CT work?
A. You will be given a small amount of radioactive glucose intravenously. The PET/CT scanner detects cells that absorb glucose as it is distributed and metabolized throughout the body. The scanner maps the distribution of the radioactivity and a computer turns that information into images that are read by a specialized DHC radiologist.
Back to TopUltrasound
Q. ULTRASOUND - Why do I need to have a full bladder for a pelvic ultrasound?
A. 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.
Q. ULTRASOUND - Why can’t I eat or drink anything before my abdomen ultrasound?
A. 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.
Q. ULTRASOUND - Can ultrasound be harmful to my baby?
A. To date, no proven ill effects have been observed as a result of regular ultrasound exams on pregnant women.
Back to TopDiagnostic Injections & Pain Management Procedures
Q. DIAGNOSTIC INJECTIONS & PAIN MANAGEMENT PROCEDURES - How long does the exam take?
A. Generally, an injection will take 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the type of procedure.
Q. DIAGNOSTIC INJECTIONS & PAIN MANAGEMENT PROCEDURES - Will I need to change clothes for the exam?
A. You will be asked to change into a gown.
Q. DIAGNOSTIC INJECTIONS & PAIN MANAGEMENT PROCEDURES - What medications are most commonly used for injections?
A. Lidocaine and Marcaine, both local anesthetics, and Celestone Soluspan, a water-soluble steroid, are most often used for therapeutic injections. Any potential drug-related side effects will be explained at the time of your examination.
Q. DIAGNOSTIC INJECTIONS & PAIN MANAGEMENT PROCEDURES - Will the procedure be painful?
A. The answer varies with each exam. Some tests are designed to relieve pain, while others are accomplished to reproduce your symptoms for diagnostic purposes. DHC radiologists are very experienced and skilled; they perform the procedures quickly and accurately, thus, minimizing any discomfort.
Q. DIAGNOSTIC INJECTIONS & PAIN MANAGEMENT PROCEDURES - Can a family member or friend accompany me during my exam?
A. In general, we do not allow family or friends into the exam rooms so that the doctor and technologists can devote all their attention to you.
Q. DIAGNOSTIC INJECTIONS & PAIN MANAGEMENT PROCEDURES - Will I need a driver?
A. Depending upon the procedure being accomplished, your reflexes may be temporarily impaired from the procedure or you may experience numbness around the injection site; therefore, we require a driver as a safety precaution. Please check with the site you plan to visit to determine if a driver is necessary.
Q. DIAGNOSTIC INJECTIONS & PAIN MANAGEMENT PROCEDURES - Can I return to work following my exam?
A. No, we do not recommend immediately returning to work following an injection/pain management procedure. Please contact a local DHC associate for more information.
Q. DIAGNOSTIC INJECTIONS & PAIN MANAGEMENT PROCEDURES - What kind of relief can I expect from the injected medication? How long will it last?
A. The quality and length of pain relief varies from patient to patient based on the type of symptoms, how long they have been present and their origin in the body. If the injection reaches the source of your pain, you are likely to experience improvement within 2 to 5 days after the procedure.
Q. DIAGNOSTIC INJECTIONS & PAIN MANAGEMENT PROCEDURES - What happens if the injection fails to relieve my pain?
A. Whether the injection relieves your symptoms or not, your overseeing physician will gather valuable data on the source and nature of your pain. If you experience no relief, your overseeing physician may use the process of elimination to move on to the next most likely source of distress. Sometimes it requires several injections to achieve the relief you desire.
Q. DIAGNOSTIC INJECTIONS & PAIN MANAGEMENT PROCEDURES -What does EMG and NCS stand for?
A. Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (NCS).
Q. DIAGNOSTIC INJECTIONS & PAIN MANAGEMENT PROCEDURES - Does EMG/NCS Hurt?
A. It is normal for most people to feel some temporary pain or discomfort. Yet, most people tolerate this minor discomfort well, and the use of anesthesia or sedatives is not usually necessary.
Q. DIAGNOSTIC INJECTIONS & PAIN MANAGEMENT PROCEDURES - Is the Stimulus Given During NCS Painful?
A. Most people receive an unusual tingling sensation. Some may also experience slight, temporary pain or discomfort.
Q. DIAGNOSTIC INJECTIONS & PAIN MANAGEMENT PROCEDURES - Are Sterile Needle Electrodes Used for EMG?
A. To prevent infection, electrodes inserted into skin are disposable (used only once, then discarded) or sterilized (if designed for re-use) following proper cleaning procedures.
Q. DIAGNOSTIC INJECTIONS & PAIN MANAGEMENT PROCEDURES - How Effective Are These Tests?
A. EMG and NCS greatly assist your healthcare provider both in making an accurate diagnosis and developing an effective plan of care for you.
Q. DIAGNOSTIC INJECTIONS & PAIN MANAGEMENT PROCEDURES - Who Performs EMG and NCS?
A. A specialist conducts or supervises the testing and interprets the results. He or she is a physician - usually a neurologist or physiatrist - who has expertise in nerve or muscle disorders.
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