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Your Visit
Shields Health Care Group has more than 25 years experience in medical imaging and diagnostic services. Our goal is to ensure you will be comfortable and relaxed while you are with us. From the time an appointment is made, through completion of the exam, patients will be guided through the process by expertly trained staff members, nurses and technologists. Our radiologists are among the best in the world and will provide referring physicians with clear and accurate interpretations.
- Prior to your visit, our staff will call you to answer your questions, obtain medical and personal information, and give you any necessary instructions to prepare for your exam.
- A CT scan is a type of X-ray. The amount of radiation used to generate a CT scan is not considered threatening to patients. However, X-rays can harm a developing fetus. It is important to tell your doctor and our technologists if you are, or even think you might be, pregnant.
- When you arrive, a technologist will conduct a brief interview, discuss the procedure and review your medical history.
- Certain conditions may require the injection of a contrast agent (similar to a dye). There is a small risk that you may have an allergic reaction to the contrast agent. Be sure to tell your doctor and our CT technologists if you have a known allergy to any food or medication or have had a previous reaction in a prior CT study.
- If you are having an abdominal CT scan, you may be required to fast up to four hours before the scan. For abdominal and pelvic scans, you may also be required to drink a contrast liquid prior to your CT scan. Our staff will contact you with specific instructions prior to your appointment.
- During the exam, you will recline comfortably on a cushioned table. We will ask you to lie as still as possible while images are being recorded. Throughout the test, you will be able to communicate with our technologist who will give you simple instructions to follow.
- The scanner does not touch you nor do you feel the images being taken. It does make some noise and the table you are lying on will move gradually while images are captured.
- In general, it takes only minutes to actually acquire all images. Most examinations last approximately 15 minutes, but you should plan about one hour for your appointment and additional time if you need to prep for an abdominal CT.
