CHEST X-RAY

Why Have a Chest X-Ray?

Chest x-rays are the most commonly performed X-ray examination. There may be many reasons why your doctor refers you for a Chest X-ray including;

Diagnosing pneumonia, emphysema and other lung infections
Assessing heart problems
Understand why a patient might be experiencing breathing problems
To provide information for immigration, licensing purposes
...and many more

Who performs the examination?

X-ray images are taken by specialist staff called radiographers. These images are then interpreted and reported upon by specialist doctors called Radiologists.

What happens during the examination?

For the examination, your radiographer may ask you to remove any clothing that might obstruct the accuracy of your images and wear a provided gown where necessary.

You will then be asked to stand in front of a cassette plate with your chest pressed lightly against it. The radiographer will then line up the x-ray machine so that your images can be taken. There will often be more than one image taken of your chest from a different angle. The radiographer will stand behind a protective glass screening whilst your image is taken.

Once the radiographer is satisfied that the images are accurate the procedure is finished. The taking of the images takes only a few seconds whilst the construction of the films may take several minutes. There is no pain or discomfort caused by the x-rays and you will have your film complete with radiologist's report within half an hour from walking into the building in most cases.

Remember to take your film and report to your next doctor's appointment.

What are the risks of having too many X-Rays?

X-rays always carry a slight risk of damage to cells and tissues. This risk however is minimal when compared with the benefits of diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. The level of exposure caused by a chest x-ray is roughly equal to that received from natural radiation in around 10 days.

To avoid over exposure to x-ray rays, radiographers who work in x-ray are required to stand behind a protective glass shield when your pictures are being taken.

Do I need to do any preparation before I have an X-Ray?

No. However, it is often better to avoid wearing clothes with metal or dense plastic parts (belts, zips etc) as they will have to be removed before the images are taken.

Where can I get an X-Ray examination and how much does it cost?

All x-ray examinations are available at all X-RAY & IMAGING practices and are bulk billed ($0) to all patients with a valid referral and a current Medicare, DVA or Work Cover card.*

Do I have to make an appointment for an X-Ray?

Although you can walk in to have an x-ray at any time during office hours, we recommend that you phone up and make an appointment wherever possible. This is simply to avoid you having to wait in the event that several people walk in at the same time. By booking an appointment you gain priority and reduce the risk of having to wait.

*Charges may apply to patients who are requesting X rays for migration, licensing or other non medical purposes.

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RELATED LINKS: X-Rays, Bone X-Rays,
IVP (Intravenous Pyelogram).