Your First Imaging Appointment: What to Expect

Here's what to organise before you arrive:

• Referral: Bring your referral letter from your doctor (or confirm the clinic has received it electronically) • Medicare card: Bring your Medicare card or know your Medicare number • Previous images: If you've had imaging elsewhere that's relevant, bring a CD/USB or let the clinic know which facility to request them from • Preparation: Follow any specific instructions the clinic gave you when you booked (fasting, full bladder, etc.) • Clothing: Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes without metal. You may be asked to change into a gown depending on the scan. • Time: Arrive 10-15 minutes early to complete paperwork

If you're unsure about anything, call the clinic before your appointment - reception staff are happy to answer questions.

When you arrive at the imaging clinic:

1. Present at reception with your referral (if you have the paper copy) and Medicare card 2. Complete a patient form - this includes your contact details, medical history, allergies, and consent for the scan 3. You'll be asked screening questions relevant to your scan (e.g., for MRI: do you have any metal implants? For CT with contrast: do you have kidney problems?) 4. The receptionist will explain any costs or out-of-pocket fees before the scan 5. Take a seat in the waiting area until the radiographer calls you

Waiting times vary - straightforward scans like X-rays may have minimal wait, while ultrasound and MRI appointments typically run closer to their scheduled time.

What happens during the scan depends on the type, but generally:

• A radiographer (the technician who operates the equipment) will greet you, confirm your details, and explain what's about to happen • You may be asked to change into a gown or remove clothing/jewellery from the scan area • The radiographer will position you on the scanning table or against the imaging plate • You'll be asked to stay still - for most scans this is just a few seconds to a few minutes • The radiographer may take multiple images from different angles • They can see and hear you throughout - if you're uncomfortable at any point, let them know

The scan itself is painless. If contrast dye is needed, a nurse or radiographer will insert a small needle into your arm first.

Radiographers are trained professionals who do this all day - they'll guide you through every step.

Once the scan is complete:

• You can usually get dressed and leave straight away • If you had contrast dye, you may be asked to wait 15-30 minutes to ensure you don't have a reaction • If you were sedated (rare, mainly for MRI), you'll need someone to drive you home • There are usually no restrictions - you can eat, drink, drive, and go back to work

The radiographer cannot give you results on the spot, even if you ask. Your images need to be reviewed by a radiologist (a specialist doctor) who writes the official report. This report is sent to your referring doctor.

Results are sent to your referring doctor, typically within:

• X-rays: 24-48 hours (urgent results same day) • Ultrasound: 24-48 hours • CT: 1-2 business days • MRI: 2-3 business days

Your referring doctor will contact you to discuss the results, or you can book a follow-up appointment. If something urgent is found, the radiologist will typically call your doctor directly.

Tip: When booking your scan, ask the clinic how long results usually take. Then book a follow-up with your GP a few days later to review them. This saves you waiting and wondering.

• Ask questions - there are no silly questions. If you're nervous about anything, tell the staff. • Tell them if you're anxious - radiographers are trained to help anxious patients. They can explain each step, let you see the equipment first, or take breaks if needed. • Bring headphones or a book for wait times • Tell them about claustrophobia - if you're having a CT or MRI and feel anxious about enclosed spaces, let the clinic know when booking. They can accommodate you. • Remember it's routine - imaging clinics perform hundreds of scans every week. What feels new and unfamiliar to you is a normal day for the staff. They're there to help. • You're in control - you can ask to stop at any time. It's your body and your appointment.

Most patients find their imaging appointment much easier than expected. The anticipation is usually worse than the reality.