When you need diagnostic or preventive imaging, you want answers you can trust and expert care that puts you at ease. MercyOne Imaging combines advanced technology with experienced imaging professionals to provide high-quality services close to home.
Our team is committed to delivering accurate, timely imaging while making your experience as comfortable and convenient as possible. Patients benefit from:
- 24/7 imaging coverage to support your care when it’s needed
- Fellowship-trained radiologists with advanced expertise in interpreting medical images
- Specially trained and certified technologists who focus on quality, safety and comfort
- An integrated image storage system that helps your care team securely access and review your images
- Support for referring physicians to help coordinate care and provide timely results
- Convenient locations, same-day scheduling options and quick turnaround times.
Frequently Asked Questions
MercyOne offers a full range of imaging services to help diagnose injuries and disease and support preventive care. Available services may vary by location and can include:
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
- CT (Computed Tomography)
- X-ray
- Ultrasound
- Mammography, including 3D mammography
- Bone Density (DEXA)
- Nuclear Medicine
- PET/CT
- Fluoroscopy
- Interventional Radiology
The length of your imaging exam depends on the type of test. Some exams, such as X-rays, may take only a few minutes, while CT scans, MRIs and other specialized scans can take longer. Your care team will let you know what to expect before your appointment and answer any questions about preparation or timing.
Some imaging exams use radiation, while others do not. X-rays, CT scans and bone density tests use low doses of radiation to create images. MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves rather than ionizing radiation.
If you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or are breastfeeding, please let your provider and imaging team know before your exam. The safest imaging option depends on your individual situation and the type of exam being ordered. Your care team will work with you to determine the most appropriate imaging approach for you and your baby.
Yes. Medical imaging plays an important role in diagnosing and treating illnesses and injury. MercyOne uses advanced imaging technology and follows established safety standards to help ensure every exam is performed safely.
After your exam, the images are reviewed by a radiologist, a physician specially trained in medical imaging. The radiologist interprets the results and shares a report with your provider, who will discuss the findings and any next steps with you.
In most cases, a health care provider will refer you to imaging for a scan to help diagnose a medical condition. Some preventive screenings, such as mammograms, can be self-scheduled. Some MercyOne facilities offer self-pay imaging services.
MercyOne offers a range of imaging services at many locations in Iowa.
- Medical centers
- Urgent care locations
- Imaging centers
- Primary care locations
Many diagnostic imaging exams require an order from a health care provider. Requirements depend on the exam, location and insurance plan. Some screening mammograms may be scheduled directly. Contact the imaging location to confirm what is needed before your visit.
Follow the instructions provided by your imaging team. Preparation depends on the exam and may involve eating or drinking instructions, medication guidance or removing metal items. Tell the team about pregnancy, implanted devices, allergies, kidney concerns or previous reactions to contrast. Do not stop medications unless your care team tells you to.
Some exams use contrast material to help show specific tissues or blood vessels. Whether contrast is needed depends on the exam and the clinical question. Tell the imaging team about prior contrast reactions, allergies, kidney concerns, pregnancy or breastfeeding so it can provide instructions specific to you.
Tell your ordering provider and imaging team if you are pregnant, may be pregnant or are breastfeeding before the exam. The appropriate test and any contrast instructions depend on your situation. Your care team will discuss options and determine whether the exam should proceed or be adjusted.
A radiologist interprets the images and sends a report to the clinician who ordered the exam. Ask your care team when to expect results, how they will be shared and whom to contact with questions. Portal release timing and follow-up arrangements may vary.