Your first visit, step by step.
Knowing what happens before, during, and after your imaging exam makes the whole visit easier. Here's exactly what to expect — from booking your appointment to getting your results.
Four simple stages, no surprises.
- Before
Book & prepare
Schedule online 24/7 or by phone. We'll confirm by text and email, verify your insurance, and send any prep instructions for your specific exam — most studies need little or no preparation.
- Arrival
Check in
Arrive about 15 minutes early. Bring your ID, insurance card, and your doctor's order. Our front-desk team will confirm your details and have you complete a short intake and safety screening.
- The scan
Your exam
A registered technologist explains each step and positions you comfortably. Most X-rays take a few minutes; MRI and CT studies typically run 15–45 minutes. You can ask questions at any point.
- After
Results & next steps
A sub-specialty radiologist reads your study and signs the report — usually within 24 hours. You and your referring provider receive the results, and your images are available in the Patient Portal.
Pack light. A short checklist.
- A valid photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID).
- Your insurance card and any required referral or authorization.
- Your doctor's order or prescription for the imaging study.
- A list of current medications and known allergies.
- Prior images or reports for the same area, if you have them.
A few tips before you arrive.
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing without metal zippers, snaps, or underwire.
- Leave jewelry, watches, and other valuables at home when you can.
- Follow any eating, drinking, or medication instructions we send for your specific exam.
- Tell us in advance if you're pregnant, have implants or metal in your body, or feel anxious in enclosed spaces.
Everything you need in one place.
Prepare for Your Visit
Step-by-step prep guides for MRI, CT, X-ray, ultrasound, and arthrogram studies.
View prep guidesScheduling
Book online 24/7, see same-day and walk-in options, or reschedule an existing exam.
Schedule your examFind a Location
Browse our California network and pick the imaging center most convenient for you.
Find a locationCommon questions, answered.
How early should I arrive?
Plan to arrive about 15 minutes before your appointment so we have time to check you in and complete a short intake and safety screening. If it's your first visit, a few extra minutes helps.
How long will my visit take?
It depends on the study. Many X-rays take just a few minutes, while MRI and CT exams usually run 15–45 minutes. Front-desk check-in and screening add a little time on top of the scan itself.
Do I need to do anything to prepare?
Most exams need little or no preparation. If yours does — for example, fasting before certain CT scans — we'll send instructions when you book. You can also review our prep guides by modality ahead of time.
When and how do I get my results?
A sub-specialty radiologist reads your study and signs the final report, typically within 24 hours. Your results go to your referring provider, and your images and report are available to you in the Patient Portal.
Can someone come with me?
Yes. A family member or friend is welcome to accompany you. For safety, anyone entering an MRI room must also complete metal screening. Let our team know if you'd like support during your exam.
Ready when you are. Let's get you scheduled.
Book online any time, or call our team seven days a week. We'll walk you through every step of your visit.