Patient Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

 

1. What type of services does Ultrasound Imaging Specialists provide?

 

Ultrasound Imaging Specialists provides diagnostic ultrasound imaging, and elective, non-diagnostic ultrasound imaging, depending on the service selected.

 

Diagnostic ultrasound exams are performed with a healthcare provider’s order and are interpreted by a licensed physician.

Elective ultrasound exams are non-diagnostic, do not require a provider referral, and are performed for personal or informational purposes only.

 

 

2. What is the difference between diagnostic and elective ultrasound exams?

 

Diagnostic ultrasounds are medical imaging studies ordered by a healthcare provider to evaluate a medical condition. These exams require a provider’s order and are interpreted by a licensed physician.

 

Elective ultrasounds are non-diagnostic and are not intended to diagnose, evaluate, or rule out medical conditions. They do not require a provider referral and do not include medical interpretation, results, or advice.

 

3. Do all ultrasound exams require a doctor’s referral?

 

No.

• Diagnostic ultrasound exams require a referral or order from a licensed healthcare provider.

• Elective, non-diagnostic ultrasound exams do not require a provider referral.

If you are unsure which type of exam is appropriate for you, please contact your healthcare provider.

 

4. Will I receive my results at my appointment?

 

No. Results are not provided during or after your exam at our facility.

 

For diagnostic exams, images are reviewed by a licensed physician, and the written report is sent to your referring provider, who will discuss the results with you.

 

Elective ultrasound exams do not include medical interpretation or results.

 

5. Can the ultrasound technologist tell me if something looks normal?

 

No. Ultrasound technologists are not physicians and cannot interpret images, provide results, or offer medical advice for either diagnostic or elective exams.

 

6. What if I have questions about by healthcare or symptoms?

 

Please contact your physician or healthcare provider. Our staff cannot answer medical questions, interpret images, or provide clinical guidance.

 

7. What if something urgent is identified?

 

For diagnostic exams, if the interpreting physician identifies a potentially urgent finding, the physician will contact your referring provider, who will then contact you.

 

Elective ultrasound exams are non-diagnostic and are not intended to identify urgent or emergent conditions.

 

8. Is ultrasound safe?

 

Ultrasound uses sound waves, not radiation, and is a widely used imaging tool. As with all imaging, ultrasound has technical limitations, and not all conditions can be detected.

 

9. Does a normal ultrasound mean everything is okay?

 

Not necessarily. Ultrasound exams my have limitations based on anatomy, body habitua, gestational age, or other factors. Only your healthcare provider can determine what the findings mean in the context of your overall health.

 

10. Do you provide medical advice or diagnoses?

 

No. Ultrasound Imaging Specialists does not provide:

• Diagnoses

• Medical opinions

• Treatment recommendations

• Prognosis or reassurance

All medical decisions should be discussed with your healthcare provider.

 

11.  How are payments handled?

 

Ultrasound Imaging Specialists is a self-pay facility. Payment is due at the time of service. We do not bill insurance or submit insurance claims.

 

12.  Will my images or report be released to me?

 

Diagnostic ultrasound reports are sent directly to your referring provider.

Elective ultrasound exams do not include medical reports.

 

Release of records is handled in accordance with HIPAA and Texas law.

 

13.  Is my information kept private?

 

Yes. Your health information is protected under HIPAA and Texas privacy laws and is shared only with authorized parties involved in your care.

 

14.  Who should I contact if I have questions after my appointment?

 

·      Scheduling or billing questions: Contact our office

·      Medical questions or results: Contact your healthcare provider

 

15.  What should I do if my symptoms worsen or I have concerns?

 

If you experience new or worsening symptoms, please contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency care.

Ultrasound Imaging Specialists does not provide emergency or follow-up medical care.

 

*IMPORTANT REMINDER

Ultrasound Imaging Specialists provides imaging services only. Elective ultrasound services are non-diagnostic and are not a substitute for medical care, diagnosis, or treatment.