Information For Patients
Helping you understand the imaging process and feel confident about your appointment.
Attending a medical imaging appointment can sometimes feel unfamiliar, particularly if it is your first experience with diagnostic imaging. At Port Macquarie Radiology, we aim to make the process as clear and comfortable as possible for every patient.
Our team understands that imaging appointments often occur when people are already dealing with pain, injury or uncertainty about their health. For this reason, we prioritise clear communication, respectful care and a calm clinical environment.
This page provides information about referrals, appointments and what to expect when attending the clinic for imaging services.
Other imaging services available:
X-ray - Ultrasound - CT Scanning - DEXA Scans - Interventional Procedures
Different imaging services are used for different purposes. Your referring practitioner will select the most appropriate scan based on your symptoms and the information needed to support your care.
Before Your Appointment
In most cases, patients are referred for imaging by a general practitioner, specialist or other healthcare provider. The referral will usually specify the type of imaging required and provide clinical information that assists the radiology team in performing the examination.
When booking your appointment, our team may provide preparation instructions depending on the type of imaging you are having. For example, some ultrasound examinations may require fasting or drinking water beforehand.
Patients are encouraged to bring the following to their appointment:
• referral documentation
• Medicare card or identification
• any relevant previous imaging results if available
Arriving a few minutes before your scheduled appointment time can help ensure the process runs smoothly.
What Happens During Your Imaging Appointment
The experience during an imaging appointment will vary depending on the type of scan being performed.
A member of the radiology team will guide you through the process and explain any positioning or preparation required. The goal is to obtain high-quality images while ensuring patients feel comfortable and informed.
Some scans take only a few minutes to complete, while others may require additional time for preparation or image acquisition. Throughout the appointment, our team will explain what is happening and answer any questions you may have.
After Your Scan
Once your imaging examination has been completed, the images are reviewed by a radiologist who prepares a diagnostic report.
This report is sent to the healthcare practitioner who referred you for imaging. Your referring doctor will then discuss the results with you and explain any next steps that may be required.
If further imaging or treatment is needed, your doctor will guide you through the appropriate course of care.
Patient Comfort And Care
We understand that medical appointments can sometimes feel stressful, particularly when they involve diagnostic tests. Our team is committed to creating a respectful and supportive environment where patients feel comfortable asking questions and expressing any concerns.
Clear explanations, professional care and a calm atmosphere are important parts of the experience we aim to provide at Port Macquarie Radiology.
By focusing on patient communication and comfort, we hope to ensure that every appointment is as straightforward and reassuring as possible.
Local Imaging Services For The Hastings Region
Port Macquarie Radiology is proud to support patients throughout the Hastings Valley and surrounding communities.
By providing imaging services locally, the clinic helps patients access important diagnostic services closer to home, reducing the need for unnecessary travel and improving convenience for individuals and families across the region.
Our goal is to provide a reliable, professional imaging service that patients feel confident attending when referred for diagnostic care.
Book An Appointment
If you have been referred for imaging or would like to enquire about the services available at Port Macquarie Radiology, our team is here to help.
Appointments can be arranged through our online booking system or by contacting the clinic directly.
Patient FAQs
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Most diagnostic imaging services require a referral from a GP, specialist or other healthcare provider.
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Patients should bring their referral documentation, identification and any previous imaging results if available.
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Appointment times vary depending on the type of imaging being performed. Many scans are completed within a short appointment.
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Imaging results are reviewed by a radiologist and sent to your referring practitioner, who will discuss the findings with you.
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It is completely normal to feel uncertain about medical imaging. Our team will explain the process and ensure you feel comfortable throughout your appointment.