X Ray Services

You will need a referral from a health professional such as your GP or specialist before you can make an appointment for a general X-Ray.

Once you have a referral you can book your xray through our simple online form, by phoning our booking team on 04 978 8600 or most doctors and specialists can refer you directly from within their practice software. The choice of which radiology to provider to use is entirely up to you. 

Generally you do not need to specifically prepare in any way before your scan. If you do need to make any preparation, our patient care coordinators will be in touch to let you know. 

We also need to know if you are, or think you could be pregnant.

Our MIT or Medical Imaging Technologist will greet you and talk through the process to ensure you are comfortable.

You are welcome to bring a support person to the appointment if you would like. They may be helpful if you need help moving or getting undressed, or simply for moral support.

Parents are welcome to sit with children who are being imaged.

For convenience you may be asked to change into a gown depending on which area is being X-Rayed.

We provide a safe place to keep your belongings.

Once you are ready your technician will gently position your body to create clear images. Often this is on an X-ray bed, sometimes in a standing position - but for both it is important to stay as still as possible while the image is being taken. It is probable more than one xray picture will be taken so that our Doctors can have the best view of the area. 

Your technician will provide an estimate of the time it will take for your X-ray. Generally allow for around 15 minutes, though depending on the images required, your appointment could be longer.

Because the X-ray imaging bed is not enclosed, claustrophobia will not be an issue. The experience is fast and painless. 

Following the examination you can resume normal activities straight away; including eating, drinking, working and exercise.

The images are interpreted by our team of expert radiologists, and the results sent to your doctor 24-48 hours after we write our detailed report.

You are welcome to request a copy of your results as well. Simply provide us with your NHI number, birth date, address and mobile phone number, or ask at the reception desk when you have your scan.

The findings and next steps in your diagnosis and treatment then take place with your doctor.

If you would like to request access to your xray images, please talk to our reception team before you leave.

X-rays are useful to:

• examine an area where you’re experiencing pain or discomfort
• monitor the progression of a diagnosed disease, such as osteoporosis
• check how well a prescribed treatment is working

• Bone cancer
• Breast tumours
• Enlarged heart
• Blocked blood vessels
• Conditions affecting your lungs
• Digestive problems
• Fractures
• Infections
• Osteoporosis
• Arthritis
• Tooth decay
• Needing to retrieve swallowed items