FAQ's
What Is A Radiologist?
A radiologist correlates x–ray findings with other examinations and tests, recommends further examinations or treatments, and confers with referring physicians (the doctors who send patients to the radiology department or clinic for testing).
Like other physicians, the radiologist must have graduated from an accredited medical school, passed a licensing examination, and completed at least 4 years of graduate medical education (residency). The radiologist must also be board certified, that is, approved to practice in the field by either the American Board of Radiology (for a medical doctor) or the American Osteopathic Board of Radiology (for an osteopath).
How Do I Schedule An Appointment For A Radiology Procedure?
Scheduling is done through our scheduling department. You may call
949-452-3648
to schedule your appointment. The scheduler will want you to read the name of the exam that your doctor has written on your prescription. Have your prescription and insurance information ready for the questions the scheduler will be asking.
How Can I Check Out My X-ray Films?
You may call
949-452-3573
to have your films prepared for check out, or to have them mailed to another facility or physician. Because your information is private, you will be asked for identification in order to check out your films. YOU are the only one allowed to check out your own films unless you authorize someone else to check them out. If you do authorize someone else to check out your films, you must make that authorization in writing. This authorization must be signed by you and must include the name of the person authorized to check out your films. If you would like to download an authorization, please go to AUTHORIZATION FOR RADIOLOGY FILM CHECK OUT OR REQUEST FOR XRAY REPORTS, select “print” under “file” on your toolbar, click on “selection only” or “current page” to print only the part you have highlighted.
Your films are the property of Saddleback Memorial Medical Center. Legally we are required to maintain them for 7 years. You are required to return your films within 30 days of check out.
How Can I Get A Copy Of The Report For The Examinations I Had Done?
You may call
949-452-3573
for a copy of any of your x–ray reports. Your reports are confidential and will require you to show identification before the report can be mailed, faxed or handed to you. If you want the report to be mailed or faxed, you will need to give some personal identifying information such as your birth date or other information. You may authorize another person to pick up your x–ray reports, but you must fill out an authorization form.
What Other Professionals Work In The Radiology Department?
Radiologic Technologists
Take the films that are ordered by your doctor. They are required to have State certifications. Technologists have completed extensive training courses in the area of diagnostic radiology. Our Cat Scan Technologists are Radiologic Technologists who have had additional training in their perspective fields. Many have national certification in these areas, although this is not a job requirement.
Nuclear Medicine Technologists
Inject the isotopes and take the films required for your Nuclear Medicine procedures. They have State and National certifications and have completed extensive training in all facets of Nuclear Medicine Imaging.
Ultrasound Technologists
Our Ultrasound Technologists are board certified by the ARDMS (national board of certification for Ultrasound Technologists). In the State of California and throughout the United States, Ultrasound Technologists do not have to have certification in order to work. Saddleback Memorial Medical Center-Laguna Hills requires certification.
