Ultrasound, MRI, CT scan. Getting diagnostic tests can be nerve wracking, but how quickly you get results should be one of several factors you consider when choosing where to go.

Story by: Rebecca Hall on June 18, 2019

It can be nerve wracking when your doctor orders tests such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) scan, to help him or her make a diagnosis. It’s never easy to wait on results, especially when it comes to your health or the health of your loved one.

But, how quickly you get results should be one of several factors you consider when choosing where to go for diagnostic tests and imaging. It’s important to know if the most advanced equipment is being used, whether specialized radiologists are available to read results and how much tests will cost.

Here are 5 things to consider when choosing where to go for diagnostic tests and imaging:

1. Are there fast, convenient appointment options?

There are three Norton Healthcare imaging services facilities that are open 24/7, 365 days a year, and other locations have evening and weekend hours, so you have many appointment options. There are also multiple sites across the area, so you can choose a location that’s close to home or close to work — wherever is most convenient for you. In addition, our sites often can accommodate same-day appointments, especially when you are flexible on the location and time.

2. Are radiologists board certified and fellowship trained?

Norton Healthcare imaging services employ board-certified, fellowship-trained specialists, as well as providers with additional specialties in areas like orthopedics and neurology. This is important when test results need to be interpreted by a specialist in that area.

3. Are same-day results offered?

The goal of Norton Healthcare imaging services is to deliver results as fast as possible without compromising care. And, we want to give your provider the power to discuss test results with you. With MyNortonChart, test results are delivered immediately to your provider, and providers can send the results to you through MyNortonChart or choose to follow up with you. This ensures your provider can answer your questions and recommend additional testing or treatment options.

4. Are tests competitively priced?

What you pay for a test will depend on factors like the type of insurance plan you have and the copays and deductibles that your plan dictates. Norton Healthcare’s access center can help provide a cost estimate for the type of test that your provider ordered. Or, you can contact your insurance company for information about your financial obligations for testing.

5. Is the testing equipment the most advanced?

Norton Healthcare imaging services use advanced testing equipment, including MRI scanners that offer open, ultra-short bore design if you are concerned about claustrophobia. Advanced equipment used in your testing gives your provider complete results to inform a diagnosis.

There’s one more important thing to keep in mind – tests performed through Norton Healthcare imaging services can be easily accessed anytime through your MyNortonChart account.