What Should I Bring to a Diagnostic Imaging Appointment in Australia?
Preparing for a diagnostic imaging appointment does not have to be complicated. Knowing what to bring, checking your referral and understanding any preparation instructions can help make your visit more straightforward.
Quick Summary
- Bring your referral or request form if your examination requires one.
- Bring your Medicare card and any relevant identification or billing information.
- Take previous imaging reports or images if your healthcare provider has asked you to provide them.
- Follow the preparation instructions given for your particular examination.
- Tell the imaging team about relevant medical information, medications, allergies or pregnancy where applicable.
- If you are unsure what to bring, contact the imaging provider before your appointment.
What Should You Bring to a Medical Imaging Appointment?
The exact items you need can depend on the type of examination you are having. For many appointments, having your referral, Medicare card, previous imaging information and any preparation instructions readily available can help the process run more smoothly.
If you have been referred for a CT scan, ultrasound, X-ray, DEXA scan or another diagnostic imaging examination, check the appointment instructions provided by your imaging provider before attending.
1. Your Referral or Request Form
Many diagnostic imaging examinations require a referral from a GP, specialist or another appropriately qualified healthcare provider. The referral gives the imaging team important information about the examination requested and the clinical reason for it.
If your referral has been sent electronically, you may not always need to bring a printed copy. However, it is useful to confirm that the imaging provider has received it before your appointment.
2. Medicare Card and Billing Information
If Medicare is relevant to your appointment, bring your Medicare card or have your Medicare details available. Depending on the examination and your circumstances, there may also be fees or out-of-pocket costs.
If you are unsure about fees, ask the imaging provider when booking your appointment.
3. Previous Scans or Reports
Previous imaging can sometimes provide useful comparison information for the radiologist. This may include earlier X-rays, ultrasound reports, CT reports or other relevant imaging.
If your previous examination was performed at another provider, ask whether you should bring the report, images or access details.
4. Relevant Medical Information
Depending on the examination, the imaging team may need information about your medical history, previous procedures, medications, allergies or other relevant circumstances.
For certain examinations, it is particularly important to tell the team if you may be pregnant or if you have specific medical conditions.
Do You Need to Bring Your Medication List?
It can be helpful to have a current list of medications with you, particularly if you are attending for an examination that involves contrast or a procedure.
You should also tell the imaging team about relevant allergies or previous reactions to contrast agents where applicable. Do not stop prescribed medication unless your healthcare provider has specifically instructed you to do so.
Check Your Preparation Instructions Before You Leave Home
Preparation requirements are not the same for every scan. Some ultrasound examinations may require you to have a full bladder, while certain abdominal examinations may require fasting. Other examinations may require little or no preparation.
For this reason, do not assume that preparation instructions for one examination apply to another. Follow the instructions provided by your imaging provider or healthcare professional.
What If You Forget Something?
If you arrive without an item you were asked to bring, do not panic. Speak with reception or the imaging team. They can let you know whether the examination can proceed or whether additional information is required.
If you realise before your appointment that you may not have the required referral, preparation or previous imaging information, contacting the provider beforehand may save time.
Diagnostic Imaging Services at CareWell Diagnostix
CareWell Diagnostix provides a range of diagnostic imaging services for patients across Tarneit and Melbourne's West.
CT Scan
CT uses X-ray technology and computer processing to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body.
Learn About CT Scans →Ultrasound
Ultrasound uses sound waves to create real-time images and does not use ionising radiation.
Explore Ultrasound →General X-Ray
X-rays are commonly used to examine bones, joints and the chest, depending on the clinical question.
Explore X-Ray →DEXA Bone Density Scan
DEXA measures bone mineral density and may assist in the assessment of bone health.
Explore DEXA →Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral for diagnostic imaging in Australia?
Many diagnostic imaging examinations require a referral from a GP, specialist or another qualified healthcare provider. Requirements can vary depending on the examination and circumstances, so check with your imaging provider if you are unsure.
Should I bring my Medicare card?
If Medicare is relevant to your appointment, it is useful to have your Medicare card or details available. Ask the provider about billing arrangements when booking.
Should I bring previous scans?
Previous reports or images may be useful for comparison in some circumstances. If your previous imaging was performed elsewhere, ask whether you should bring the report or images.
Do I need to fast before an imaging appointment?
It depends on the examination. Some scans require fasting while others do not. Always follow the specific preparation instructions provided for your appointment.
What if I am pregnant or may be pregnant?
Tell your healthcare provider and imaging team before an examination, particularly when the examination involves ionising radiation. They can consider the appropriate imaging approach for your circumstances.
Preparing for Your Imaging Appointment?
If you have been referred for diagnostic imaging in Tarneit or Melbourne's West, CareWell Diagnostix can help you understand the appointment process and preparation requirements for your examination.
Book an AppointmentImportant information: This article is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Preparation requirements vary depending on the examination and individual circumstances. Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider and imaging provider.