Neighbors Emergency Centers all have radiology technicians available 24/7. Our rad techs provide diagnostic imaging services via onsite ultrasound, x-ray, and CT scan.
What is an X-Ray?
An x-ray is the most familiar type of radiology testing to most people. The X-Ray machine passes x-ray beams through your body. The x-rays are absorbed in different amounts by the different parts of your body depending on their density. Denser materials, such as bone or metal, show up in the x-ray images.
Why do I need an X-Ray?
X-rays are used to show the contrast between your body parts (predominantly bone, which shows in white) and other substances or abnormalities in your body. X-rays are commonly used to diagnose issues in bones and teeth such as fractures, arthritis, osteoporosis, or bone cancer. They can also be used to diagnose lung infections, congestive heart failure, blocked blood vessels, items that have been ingested, or even some digestive tract issues (with a barium contrast medium).
What is getting an X-ray like?
Getting an X-ray is painless. You will not be able to feel the x-ray beams. The radiology technologist will position you so that the x-ray machine is able to get imaging in the needed area. You will be asked to remain still or possibly even hold your breath to get a clear image. You may be given a lead-lined garment to cover the parts of your body not being x-rayed in order to minimize your radiation exposure.
Your results are stored digitally and reviewed on a computer screen. At your discharge, you may be given your images via a digital file.
Absolutely wonderful resource for this community! They are doing a wonderful job even while being understaffed.
– Cynthia
