Diagnostic Imaging Orders: What Happens After Your Provider Orders a Scan

When your provider orders an imaging test, the order goes to an imaging facility. You schedule the scan there, follow that facility’s preparation instructions and have the scan done. A radiologist then reads the images and sends a report to your provider, who goes over the findings and next steps with you. SimrikMed does not perform imaging on site. Our diagnostic imaging orders service sends the order electronically to a diagnostic center near you, and your results are reviewed in a follow-up visit.

Step 1: Understand why the scan was ordered

Before you leave the visit, make sure you know what the scan is looking for and how the result could change your care. The FDA suggests asking how the results will guide treatment, and whether a test without radiation could answer the same question. Also ask which type of imaging was ordered. Preparation differs between them.

Test	How it works	Uses radiation?
X-ray	Brief exposure to X-rays creates an image	Yes
CT scan	Many X-ray images combined into detailed cross-sections	Yes
MRI	Magnetic field and radio waves	No
Ultrasound	Sound waves	No

Step 2: Schedule with the imaging center

The facility receiving your order will tell you how to book, what to bring and how to prepare. Call them if you haven’t heard back or if your order details look wrong. Facility rules on eating, drinking and arrival times vary, so follow the instructions they give you.

Step 3: Prepare for your scan type

X-ray

Most X-rays need no special preparation. You will usually remove jewelry, glasses and anything metal from the area being imaged, and you may change into a gown.

CT scan

You may be asked not to eat or drink for a few hours beforehand, especially if contrast material will be used. If you have had a reaction to contrast before, tell your provider. They may prescribe medicine to lower the risk.

MRI

MRI uses a strong magnet, so safety questions focus on metal and devices. Tell the technologist about any implant, device or metal in your body. Most orthopedic implants are fine, but some devices can be affected. You will need to remove jewelry and may need to change clothes. Some clothing fibers contain metal. If enclosed spaces make you anxious, ask your provider before the day. A mild sedative is sometimes an option, and you would then need someone to drive you home.

Ultrasound

Ultrasound usually needs little preparation, though some abdominal or pelvic scans have eating or drinking instructions. Loose, comfortable clothing helps.

Step 4: What to tell the imaging staff

Before your imaging appointment, tell your provider and the imaging team if any of the following apply to you.

• You are pregnant or might be pregnant. If you’re scheduled for an imaging test other than ultrasound, ask your provider whether it’s safe for you to proceed.
• You’ve had a reaction to contrast or have other allergies. If you’ve had a reaction before, tell the imaging team what symptoms you experienced.
• You have kidney problems. If your CT or MRI scan will use IV contrast, ask your provider whether the contrast is safe for you.
• You have a pacemaker or another implanted device. Before an MRI, tell the imaging team which device you have. Bring your device ID card if you have one.
• You are breastfeeding. If your CT or MRI scan will use contrast, ask your provider whether you need to take any precautions.

Step 5: How results come back

After the scan, a radiologist reviews the images and sends a report to the provider who ordered it. Some facilities also release the report to a patient portal. The report is written for clinicians and can be hard to interpret alone, so plan to discuss it with your provider. Your provider may recommend further imaging, a referral or a change in treatment.

At SimrikMed, imaging findings and next steps are reviewed in a follow-up visit, which may be by telehealth.

About radiation

X-rays and CT use ionizing radiation. The FDA describes a small possible increase in lifetime cancer risk that depends on dose, the number of exams and age. Children are more sensitive. For most people, a scan that is medically needed has benefits that outweigh this risk. If you have questions, ask whether the scan is necessary and whether there is an alternative.

When not to wait for a scheduled scan

An imaging order is for planned evaluation. If you develop severe or sudden symptoms while you wait, such as severe pain, trouble breathing, chest pain or signs of a stroke, call 911.

Next step

Learn how SimrikMed arranges diagnostic imaging orders. If your scan is part of a wider evaluation, our guide to understanding results and follow-up covers the questions to bring to your review.