Patients
How To Prepare For Your Imaging Appointment
A short read now can save real time on the day of your visit. Choose your modality below or read the full page in about five minutes.
General checklist for every visit
- Bring a valid photo ID and your insurance card if applicable.
- Bring the referral or order from your physician if you have it.
- Bring any prior imaging on disc — comparison studies help your radiologist.
- Plan to arrive about 15 minutes early to complete a brief screening form.
- Let us know in advance if you are pregnant, have kidney disease, experience claustrophobia, or have a history of contrast reactions.
MRI Preparation
MRI uses a magnetic field and radio waves — no ionizing radiation. It is the preferred tool for brain, spine, and soft tissue studies.
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing without metal hardware if possible.
- Remove all jewelry, piercings, watches, hearing aids, and removable dental appliances.
- Disclose any implanted devices: pacemakers, surgical clips, orthopedic hardware, cochlear implants, or neurostimulators.
- Most MRI studies require no fasting unless contrast is ordered.
- Claustrophobia: let us know in advance so we can prepare and make your experience more comfortable.
CT Scan Preparation
CT is fast and precise, using a low dose of X-ray to create cross-sectional images.
- Wear clothing without metal fasteners near the body part being scanned.
- Bring your medication list and any prior imaging discs.
- Inform us of pregnancy, kidney disease, or prior contrast reactions.
Ultrasound Preparation
Ultrasound is radiation-free and uses sound waves to create real-time images.
- Abdominal ultrasound: nothing to eat or drink for 6 to 8 hours beforehand.
- Pelvic or obstetric ultrasound: arrive with a full bladder — drink about 32 oz of water one hour before.
- Most other ultrasound types: no prep needed.
Echocardiogram Preparation
An echocardiogram is a cardiac ultrasound that evaluates your heart's function and structure.
- Wear a comfortable two-piece outfit.
- Bring a list of your current cardiac medications.
- No fasting is required for a standard transthoracic echo.
X-Ray Preparation
Digital X-ray delivers clear images quickly with a minimal radiation dose.
- Wear clothing without metal snaps, underwire, or zippers near the body part being imaged.
- Remove jewelry from the area being scanned.
- Tell the technologist if you are or may be pregnant.
Schedule Today
Schedule Your Scan Today
Our Metro Atlanta team confirms most appointments within one business day. Self-pay and most major insurance plans accepted.