Important Announcements

Nondiscrimination Policy Update

Boston Medical Center Health System complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, national origin (including limited English proficiency and primary language), religion, culture, physical or mental disabilities, socioeconomic status, sex, sexual orientation and gender identity and/or expression. BMCHS provides free aids and services to people with disabilities and free language services to people whose primary language is not English.

To read our full Nondiscrimination Statement, click here.

The Diagnostic Radiology department is a full service, academic medical imaging department for both adult and pediatric patients. A team of licensed and ARRT registered technologists accommodate patients imaging needs. The department houses the most sophisticated medical imaging technology to quickly deliver accurate electronic images to referring physicians. The enhanced digital imaging has many advantages over traditional x-ray units including providing a more detailed image with lower radiation dose in a shorter amount of time in a comfortable and compassionate setting.

Diagnostic Radiology is the branch of radiology that uses ionizing radiation to visualize the bones and organs in order to provide medical information needed to diagnosis a problem. It is commonly used for fractures, pneumonia, infections, and foreign bodies.

Patient Questions

Do I need an order for my exam?

Yes, all exams require an order from a physician.

Do I need to schedule an appointment for my exam?

Most exams in general x-ray do not require a scheduled appointment unless it’s a [shortcode-diagnostics-fluoroscopy].

How do I prepare for my exam?

Most exams do not require a prep prior to arrival, unless you are scheduled for a fluoroscopy study. Fluoroscopy studies require specific preps prior to arrival, depending on exam ordered.

What Can I Expect During my Exam?

Most x-rays are performed by the technologist alone. You will be greeted by the tech and proceed to x-ray room. You will be asked to provide 2 forms of ID prior to exam. Depending on amount of exams ordered, once in the room, it may take only minutes to complete the exam. Fluoroscopy exams, depending on study, can last from 30 minutes to hours. Reminder that we are a Level 1 Trauma Center and we cannot predict if the wait time will increase due to an emergency.

What Can I Expect After my Exam?

Once the test is complete, you can resume normal activity. If you have had a fluoroscopic exam that required the use of barium, you should drink plenty of liquids throughout the day.

When Can I Expect Results?

Once the radiologist reads your images, your ordering physician will receive results typically within 48 to 72 hours. They will go over the findings with you.