X-Ray and Radiation Safety: Walk-In Appointments and Pregnancy Questions

Overview

An X-ray is a common imaging test that uses a small amount of ionizing radiation to create images of bones, joints, the chest, abdomen, or other areas requested by your healthcare provider.

Standard X-rays are available on a walk-in basis. This means you usually do not need to book an appointment, but you do need a valid requisition from a licensed physician or authorized healthcare provider.

What You Need to Know

• Standard X-rays are walk-in.
• You do not need an appointment for a standard X-ray.
• You do need a valid requisition.
• X-rays use ionizing radiation.
• When an X-ray is medically needed and performed properly, the radiation exposure is low.
• If you are pregnant or might be pregnant, non-urgent X-rays are usually postponed.
• If imaging is urgent, your healthcare provider will weigh the benefits and risks.

Before You Go

Before visiting for an X-ray, make sure you have:

• A valid requisition
• Your health card, if applicable
• Any instructions from your referring provider
• Any relevant prior imaging information, if requested

Check location details before going, since services and hours may vary by location.

How to Prepare

In general, follow any instructions provided by your referring provider or the clinic. You may be asked to remove items such as jewelry, belts, or clothing with metal near the area being imaged.

Safety Notes

X-rays use ionizing radiation. The amount used for standard X-rays is low, but X-rays are only performed when there is a medical reason.

If you are pregnant or might be pregnant, tell staff before the exam. Non-urgent X-rays are usually delayed during pregnancy. If the X-ray is medically necessary, your physician will help decide whether the benefits outweigh the risks or whether another test without radiation may be more appropriate.

When to Contact GNMI

Contact GNMI before coming in if:

• You are pregnant or might be pregnant
• You are unsure whether your exam is a standard walk-in X-ray
• You are unsure whether your requisition is valid
• You need location-specific X-ray hours
• You have accessibility needs
• You have questions about what to wear or bring