What to Expect

Preparing for Your Imaging Service

When your primary care physician or specialist requests a diagnostic study requiring imaging, you will be given a written order—or it will be sent to the designated Hope Imaging facility where your procedure will take place. Please make sure you bring your physician’s orders, if applicable, as well as your insurance information, and any previous scans you may have had previously. Without the physician’s orders, you will not be able to complete the study.

There is little advanced preparation required before most imaging procedures. However, some imaging procedures may require you to do some preparation at home before you come in, or when you first reach the radiology facility. For example, abdominal studies frequently involve swallowing a liquid containing barium. Other studies require your bladder or bowel to be clear, so evacuation must begin several hours in advance. Your doctor will give you detailed instructions on how to prepare for your specific procedure. Make sure you complete these steps prior to appearing for your test, otherwise your procedure will be rescheduled.