Frequently Asked Questions
Below, we have tried to answer the most common questions visitors to our website may have. If you find that your question is not answered on this page, call us at 800-755-7441 or locally in Lexington at 859-278-7226.
I am not wearing any metal, why do I have to undress and put on a gown?
The magnet on the MRI is very strong and many different types of clothing have metal microfibers that could result in skin burns during the imaging scan.
For your safety, it is LDC policy that all patients undress and put on a gown. The gown will also guard against metallic threads and materials causing artifacts that can obscure images.
How do I schedule an MRI, CT Scan, X-ray, Nuclear Medicine Exam, or Ultrasound?
If your doctor has recommended a clinical medical imaging exam to help in diagnosing your symptoms, then you or the doctor's office staff will call to schedule you for an appointment. Our central scheduling number is 800-755-7441 and our Lexington number is (859) 278-7226.
How long will it take to perform an MRI Scan, CT Scan, or Ultrasound test?
MRI Scanning of a single area without contrast will take about 20-40 minutes on the High Field MRI Scanner and 30-45 minutes on the High Field OPEN MRI. If the doctor has ordered multiple body parts to be scanned, then the scans will take longer. CT Scanning will take about 10 minutes for each test ordered. Ultrasounds take about 20 minutes.
Is MRI safe, even if I am pregnant?
There are no known adverse effects on the human body from MRI scanners used today. Unlike an X-ray or CT Scan, MRIs do not emit any ionizing radiation. To date there have been no adverse reactions to pregnancy from MRI. However, to be perfectly safe we prefer to scan pregnant women only if the symptoms indicate that the scan can't wait until the baby is born and the patient signs an informed consent.
Why is the MRI scanner so noisy?
Although there are no moving parts inside an MRI scanner, noise is generated when powerful Radio Frequency (RF) electrical pulses are turned on and strong electromagnetic fields are switched off and on rapidly. We offer patients earplugs, or nice music in headphones to help reduce the noise level. Many people can go to sleep during a scan.
When will my doctor get a report? Will I get copies of the scan to take to my doctor?
Generally the scans are read the same day or next morning. The formal typed report will be ready within three business days and sent by mail, fax or electronically via our PACS system. You will be provided with one complimentary set of images on a CD at the time of the scan to take to with you to your doctor. We suggest that you keep these images in a safe place.
Will my insurance pay for screening CT Scans?
Most insurance companies pay for CT Lung Cancer Screening if you meet the criteria. Please see our CT Lung Cancer Screening page.
We participate with all major insurance carriers, HMOs, PPOs, including United Healthcare, Humana, Anthem Blue Cross, Medicare, Medicaid, and Workman's Compensation. Each plan is different and you should check with your plan handbook or client services to determine whether or not you have a co-pay or a deductible to meet.
If you do not have insurance coverage, payment is expected at the time of service. We do accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover. For further information you may contact our billing office (859) 278-7226.
I have to work and have trouble getting off during the day. Do you have early morning, evening and weekend hours?
Yes, we have convenient early morning, evening, and Saturday hours. We are open from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM Monday through Friday and Saturday 8 AM to 2 PM (No Walk-in X-Rays). We can often schedule patients on the next day after the test is ordered.
I am afraid of enclosed spaces. Can I still get an MRI Scan or CT Scan? What is the patient weight limit on your scanners?
Our MRI scanners and CT scanner are particularly suited for patients with various body types or who have claustrophobia. If you are having an MRI scan, a family member can be in the room with you during the scan once they have completed a screening for their safety.
Our new high-field 1.5T scanner is also a great choice for those dealing with claustrophobia and those with a larger body type. It is very comfortable, the width inside is 70 cm in diameter all the way around and very bright. The open bore in combination with an ultra-short system design and shorter scan times are helpful to both our claustrophobic and large body type patients. This scanner can accommodate patients up to 525 lbs.
We also offer 3T MRI imaging which can provide very detailed scans. This also has a shorter bore design, and the table can accommodate 550 lbs. MRI exams performed on this scanner are dependent on the type of scan your referring provider has requested for you.
Our CT scanner can accommodate patients up to 390 pounds.