What is Radiography and Fluoroscopy (X-ray)?
Depending on the type of x-ray that is needed there are two options available at Blessing Health facilities that are used from injury to chronic illness. All staff performing x-rays are registered radiology technologists through the ARRT.
Diagnostic X-Ray: This type of x-ray uses radiation to image bones, organs and other internal features. Images are taken with the body part in several different positions. Normal x-rays typically take 15 minutes or less. Diagnostic x-ray is offered at all large clinics and hospitals and also at several smaller clinics throughout Blessing Health.
Fluoroscopy X-Ray: Fluoroscopy uses radiation to create live imaging. These exams use barium or nonionic contrast to assess the urinary or gastrointestinal systems. Most fluoroscopic exams take 1 hour or less. Patients may have to follow some pre-procedure instructions to prepare for the exam that will be provided before the appointment.
Where can I get an x-ray?
Diagnostic x-ray imaging is available at all main Blessing locations and some clinics.
- Blessing Health Palmyra: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm X-ray
- Blessing Health Mt. Sterling: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm X-ray
- Blessing Health Keokuk: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm X-ray/walk in
- Macomb: Monday-Thursday 8am-5pm-Podiatry/Ortho
- Hamilton-Warsaw: Wednesday 8am-12pm X-ray
- Center: M-F 8a-5p
- Blessing Health Bowling Green: M-F 8a-5p
- Monroe City: M-F 8a-5p
Fluoroscopy is available at Blessing Hospital in Quincy and Blessing Health Hannibal. Not all exams are performed at all locations.
How do I get my results?
Images are interpreted by a radiologist and results are typically returned to the ordering provider within 2 business days.
What should a patient expect?
Our Blessing Health team is highly trained to provide a wide range of services to our patients. The x-ray is typically a short process and plain x-rays can be done as a walk-in (with a valid physician order), but an appointment is needed for fluoroscopy. Our trained staff are skilled at adapting their techniques to get high-quality images in challenging situations. We provide age-specific care in imaging all age groups, from infants to the elderly. In addition, Blessing Health offers Dynamic Digital Radiology at the Blessing Health 4800 Maine location. This technology supports the diagnosis of musculoskeletal conditions by presenting diagnostic detail in full motion. DDR is the only imaging study that provides a view of anatomy in motion, with a large field of view and low radiation dose. Learn more here.
How do you make an appointment?
Patients should contact their provider if they have specific questions about a test. For outside orders, centralized scheduling can assist in getting scheduled by calling (217) 223-8400 ext. 4300.
For more information visit www.radiologyinfo.org.