X-Ray

Understanding X-Rays

An X-Ray is a noninvasive and painless medical imaging test that is used to diagnose and monitor a variety of bone, chest, abdominal and soft tissue disorders. X-Rays use a small dose of ionizing radiation, which is used to produce two-dimensional pictures of body structures.

Did you know...

X-Ray is one of the oldest and most common imaging techniques, use low doses of radiation to visualize bones and internal organs, aiding in the diagnosis of fractures and other conditions.

Who Needs An X-Ray?

If you have a concern that you have gone to your doctor about and they have more questions, an X-Ray may be recommended to gather more information. The most well-known use is for suspected broken bones.

X-Rays are used for a range of other possible conditions, such as chest x-rays for conditions affecting your lungs. They may be the baseline test to a series of more tests if needed.

Choosing CAMIS for X-Rays

At CAMIS, we pride ourselves on providing the expert care you deserve and delivering a quick and comfortable X-Ray experience.

We understand that the need for an x-ray may be unexpected, so we prioritize having walk-in X-Rays at our Red Deer and Drayton Valley locations, Monday to Friday. Wait times may vary. Please call the location you plan to visit for more information.

X-Ray Additional Information

It is important to us to empower you with knowledge regarding X-Rays so you can feel comfortable and prepared for your appointment.

X-Ray are a form of energy, similar to light and radio waves. They are used to produce images of the structures inside the body, most commonly bones.

Evidence supports that the radiation X-Ray’s is extremely low and comparable to radiation that we are exposed to as part of daily living. The benefits of an X-Ray outweigh any possible side effects.

Preparing For Your Appointment

PATIENT PREPARATION

Bring your requisition and health care card with you.
Wear loose comfortable clothing, free of metal or zippers if possible.

Covered by Alberta Health Care

Referrals are necessary for all bookings

Exam Duration: 10 – 15mins

Common Questions About X-Ray

What happens after an X-Ray?

After an X-Ray, we send the Images and related information to your physician. We are unable to show you the X-Ray photos or provide you with interpretations on the spot. The results from your exam can be explained to you by your physician and accessed through your MyHealth Alberta Account.

What should I expect if my child is getting an X-Ray?

If your child is getting an X-Ray, we understand they may need your comfort. A parent or guardian is welcome to accompany their child into the X-Ray room to provide emotional support and help position them, up until the moment the X-Ray image is actually being taken.

For the brief few seconds of radiation exposure during the X-Ray capture itself, parents will be asked to step outside the room. Our technologists are highly experienced in working with children to make the process as quick and stress-free as possible.

Do I need a referral from a physician?

Yes, for all exams, a valid referral (requisition) from a licensed physician or nurse practitioner is required. We cannot perform your service without this referral.

Can children be in the X-Ray room with me?

For safety reasons, particularly due to radiation exposure, children are strictly unable to be present in the X-Ray room while images are being taken. Unfortunately, our facility does not have dedicated childcare services.

If you must bring children with you to your X-Ray appointment, please ensure they are old enough to be left unsupervised in the waiting area for a short period and have quiet activities (like books or tablets) to keep them entertained while you are in the exam room.

How should I prepare for the appointment if I have limited mobility?

If you are a patient with limited mobility – please contact us so we can prepare for your visit and provide the right recommendations. Our location is ramp-accessible and we will do our best to provide any additional aid as needed.

Is an appointment required for an X-Ray?

For general X-Ray exams, no appointment is needed. CAMIS welcomes patients on a walk-in basis. Please ensure you have a valid physician’s requisition (referral) and bring your healthcare card with you.

X-Rays are available at three CAMIS locations:

– Red Deer Main Office Hours: 7:15 am. – 4:00 pm
– Notre Dame Plaza Office Hours: 7:15 am. – 4:00 pm
– Drayton Valley Office Hours: 8:00am – 4:30 pm

Why is an eye X-Ray needed before an MRI?

An X-Ray of your eyes is specifically required before an MRI if you have a history of an eye injury that involved metal fragments (e.g., from grinding, welding, or shrapnel) and required medical treatment. This is a crucial safety precaution to rule out any metallic foreign bodies in or near your eyes, as the strong magnetic field of the MRI could cause them to move and cause serious injury.

Why aren't X-Rays offered in Sylvan Lake?

We don’t have the necessary X-Ray equipment installed at our Sylvan Lake location. X-Ray services are available at both our Red Deer Main, Notre Dame and Drayton Valley locations.

What if I am or might be pregnant before an X-Ray?

It is absolutely imperative and critical that you immediately alert your doctor and the X-Ray technologist if there is any possibility that you are pregnant, or even if you just suspect you might be. X-Rays involve radiation, which can pose risks to a developing fetus. We will then discuss alternative imaging methods or necessary precautions to ensure the safety of your pregnancy.