Patient Information
Radiology encompasses a wide variety of imaging techniques, both non-invasive and invasive. It has evolved from a purely diagnostic specialty to one that also provides therapeutic interventions.
Most radiological techniques can be used to examine any part of the body, and the diagnostic information obtained is usually extensive, but sometimes supplementary imaging is required. The radiologist and your clinician will determine which radiological procedures are most appropriate for your condition.
RIS/PACS Technology
Our practices are all technologically advanced and predominantly digital, functioning with RIS/PACS technology.
We have created technologically advanced practices which are predominantly digital and include RIS/PACS technology.
The patient is required to complete the information form only once. All information will be stored on our RIS (Radiology Information System). This enables any one of our three practices to access the information, thus eliminating tedious paperwork and duplicate entries.
All the data is passed onto the radiographers and doctors in the form of a work list. This promotes efficient workflow and ensures precise labelling of image data, radiology reporting, typing and billing.
We offer both conventional paper/film and modern electronic delivery (CD / DVD) of reports and images. All our practices are fully digital. Filmless technology is environmentally friendly, removing the need for film processing chemicals and reducing the use of paper and cardboard for the film packets and reports. The images are sent electronically via our RIS/PACS technology directly to the referring clinicians. The service provides reliable and efficient access to your imaging data and reports.
Radiation Safety
We are all exposed to natural background radiation every day of our lives. This comes from the ground and building materials around us, the air we breathe, the food we eat and even from outer space (cosmic rays).
Each medical x-ray examination gives us a small additional dose on top of this natural background radiation. The level of dose varies with the type of examination, ranging from the equivalent of a few days of natural background radiation for the commoner examinations such as x-rays of the chest or limbs, to a few years. Even these represent only a fraction of our lifetime dose from natural radiation.
Radiologic imaging plays a major role in patient care by providing early and accurate diagnosis of disease, improved treatment planning, and image-guided therapies that help save lives every day.
Although there is a small but recognized risk from radiation exposure with some forms of radiologic imaging, the benefits of having a necessary study far outweigh the risk. Conventional x-rays, CT, fluoroscopy, mammography are examples of studies which involve the use of ionizing radiation. Ultrasound and MRI do not involve the use of ionizing radiation.
We place a strong emphasis not only on quality and expertise of radiologic imaging services but also on patient safety, including radiation safety. Our practice is committed to obtaining quality images, while minimizing the risk of radiation exposure to patients from imaging procedures whenever and wherever possible.
We make use of lead shielding to protect that part of your body that does not require exposure. We do take special care of pregnant women and children and shield them properly. We strive to ensure that the radiation dosage to which patients are exposed is minimized and does not exceed the prescribed safety levels.
