For Patients

Your Procedure

How to Prepare for Your Procedure

Diagnostic Imaging is a term used to describe the technology we have available today to produce scans or images of your body. MRI, CT, US, Digital Mammography, X-rays, and DEXA. Scans are imaging modalities that play an important role in diagnostic as well as screening procedures. Each modality provides a very unique diagnostic benefit. Your practitioner will make the technology decision based on the clinical information he or she has from your office visit. The goal of imaging is to utilize the technology that gives the greatest diagnostic information for that part of your body being evaluated. It is not uncommon for one or several types of technology to be used to help your physician gain a better diagnostic picture related to your health. Our team of radiologists are always available by phone to consult with your physician if there is a specific request or questions.

For some patients, the mere suggestion of imaging produces significant anxiety and fear. Perhaps they have heard friends and family communicate their experience in a less than positive manner. Other patients are simply concerned with the outcome or results of an upcoming imaging procedure. At Portland Medical Imaging we believe that knowing what to anticipate when you come to the center, having the correct preparation information, and understanding how your scan results will be communicated to your physician will help make your visit a positive experience.

This section will give you an overview of each of our procedures and what you can expect during your brief visit at our center. If at any time you would like further information related to your scheduled visit, our office staff will be happy to speak with you. You may reach us at (503) 215-8900.

General Guidelines

• Notify your clinician and PMI staff if there is any chance that you may be pregnant or are currently breastfeeding.
• Discuss any special needs, such as dietary and/or physical limitations, with us in advance.
• Arrive 15 minutes early to verify your registration information and provide further health information for your exam.
• Wear comfortable, metal-free clothing; be prepared to change into a patient gown if necessary.
• Bring prior x-rays or scans with you to the exam if you are instructed to do so. Bring your insurance card and a photo ID.

Medical Records and Results

We will send your exam report directly to your physician within 24 hours. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you at your next scheduled appointment.

Proper preparation is an important part of your examination. If you have questions about your exam and have not been contacted by PMI, please feel free to contact our center.

Each type of imaging procedure has its own specific preparation guidelines. Special instructions for your exam will be given at the time your practitioner schedules the exam.