Medical Imaging has become an indispensable part of modern healthcare that involves the production of high quality images for the purpose of diagnosis of injury or disease. It is a pivotal aspect of medicine and a patient's diagnosis and ultimate treatment is often dependent on the images produced.
Medical Imaging services have continued to grow over the last twenty years, outpacing growth in total Medicare services and the population. There is now on average over one X-ray or scan performed for every Australian each year. The growth reflects the increasing clinical use of medical imaging in patient management; driven by increased patient access, the ageing population and technological advancements allowing for a wider range of targeted diagnosis. Medical Imaging uses both ionising and non-ionising radiation in the imaging process. The equipment (or modalities) used is at the high end of technology and computerisation within medicine.
Medical Imaging Modalities include:
- General X-Ray
- Ultrasound
- Computed tomography (CT)
- Nuclear medicine including positron emission tomography (PET)
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Mammography
- Orthopantomogram (OPG)
- Fluoroscopy
- Interventional radiology
How will this service help you?
The use of medical imaging technologies give clinicians information to assist with diagnosis and treatment. The Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) networked and digital imaging service gives your referring doctor or specialist a report on your medical imaging that supports your clinical care.
You do not need to be a hospital inpatient to access medical imaging services. Limited outpatient x-rays and a range of medical imaging services are available at some MLHD hospitals. Note that emergencies and urgent inpatients will take precedence over outpatient examinations which may/can be rescheduled at short notice. MLHD bulk bills for outpatient medical imaging services so there is no cost for any Medicare-eligible funded service.
Keep in mind you will need a Medicare valid and completed referral from your GP, doctor or health care provider to have a medical imaging service as an outpatient.
Contact your local MLHD facility for further information and to make an appointment.