What to Expect at Your SimonMed Imaging Appointment

SimonMed Imaging appointments are outpatient imaging scans — X-rays, CT, ultrasound, MRI, or mammography — scheduled through a network of imaging centers across the United States.

SimonMed Imaging operates freestanding diagnostic imaging facilities, meaning you go directly to their center rather than a hospital. Your doctor orders the scan, you call or book online to schedule, and you arrive at the location for your appointment. The process is straightforward: check in, change into a gown if needed, have the scan performed by a technologist, and leave. Results typically go back to your referring doctor within 24 to 48 hours.

SimonMed centers are in multiple states, so the specific location depends on where you live and which facility your doctor refers you to. You can find nearby centers on their website or call the location directly to confirm they accept your insurance and can schedule you.

Key Takeaways

• SimonMed Imaging centers perform diagnostic scans like X-rays, CT, ultrasound, MRI, and mammography at outpatient facilities separate from hospitals.
• Your doctor must order the scan before you can schedule; you cannot book an appointment without a referral or prescription.
• Bring your insurance card, photo ID, and any paperwork your doctor gave you, and arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to complete check-in.
• Preparation depends on the type of scan — some require fasting, contrast dye, or removing metal objects — so confirm requirements when you schedule.
• Results are sent to your doctor, not directly to you, so follow up with your doctor's office to discuss findings.

What to bring and how to prepare

Bring your insurance card and a photo ID to every appointment. If your doctor gave you written orders or a prescription for the scan, bring those too. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early so you have time to check in and complete any paperwork the center needs.

Preparation varies by scan type. For an X-ray or basic ultrasound, you typically need no special prep. For CT or MRI, you may need to remove jewelry, watches, or anything metal. For MRI specifically, tell the technologist if you have any metal implants — pacemakers, metal plates, or certain types of aneurysm clips — because MRI uses a strong magnetic field. For mammography, avoid scheduling during the week before your period if your breasts are tender, and wear a two-piece outfit so you only need to undress from the waist up.

Some scans require fasting or contrast dye. If your scan involves contrast (a liquid or injection that makes certain structures show up better on the image), the center will tell you when you schedule whether you need to fast beforehand or if you have any allergies that matter. Ask about this when you call to book.

The appointment itself: what happens in the room

When you arrive, you'll check in at the front desk, provide your insurance and ID, and wait in the reception area. A technologist will call you back and take you to the imaging room. Depending on the scan, you may change into a gown or stay in your clothes. The technologist will position you on the scanner bed or table and explain what you'll feel and hear during the scan.

X-rays are quick — usually under a minute. You stand or lie still while the machine takes pictures. CT scans take a few minutes; you lie on a table that slides into a tunnel-shaped machine. MRI takes longer, usually 30 to 60 minutes, and is noisier — you'll hear loud banging and beeping sounds, which is normal. Ultrasound involves a technologist moving a small handheld probe over your skin with gel. Mammography requires you to stand and position your breast between two plates that compress briefly.

The technologist cannot tell you what the images show — that's the radiologist's job. They will tell you when the scan is done, you'll get dressed if you changed, and you're free to leave. The whole visit usually takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the type of scan.

Insurance and payment

SimonMed centers accept most major insurance plans, but coverage varies. When you schedule your appointment, confirm with the center that your insurance is accepted and ask whether you need prior authorization from your insurance company. Some plans require the doctor's office to request approval before the scan can happen.

Ask about your out-of-pocket cost — copay, coinsurance, or deductible — when you schedule. If you don't have insurance, ask about self-pay rates; many imaging centers offer discounts for uninsured patients who pay upfront. If cost is a concern, tell your doctor before the scan is ordered; they may be able to suggest alternatives or help you understand why the scan is necessary.

How long results take and what happens next

A radiologist — a doctor who specializes in reading imaging scans — reviews your images and writes a report. This usually takes 24 to 48 hours, though urgent scans may be read the same day. The report goes to your referring doctor, not directly to you.

Contact your doctor's office a few days after your appointment to ask about results. Don't assume no news is good news; sometimes results get delayed in the system. Your doctor will discuss the findings with you, explain what they mean, and tell you if any follow-up is needed — whether that's another scan, a specialist visit, or simply monitoring.

What to do if you need to reschedule or cancel

If you need to change your appointment, call the SimonMed center directly as soon as possible. Most centers ask for at least 24 hours' notice to reschedule without a cancellation fee. If you cancel last-minute or don't show up, some centers may charge a fee or require your doctor to reorder the scan.

If you're sick on the day of your appointment — especially if you have a fever or contagious illness — call and reschedule. The center will understand, and it's safer for staff and other patients. If you're running late, call ahead so the center knows to expect you.

Common concerns and what's normal

Many people worry about radiation exposure from X-rays and CT scans. The radiation dose from a single X-ray is very small — less than you'd get from a few days of natural background radiation. CT scans use more radiation but are still considered safe when medically necessary. If you're pregnant or think you might be, tell the center before the scan; they may reschedule or use ultrasound instead.

If you're claustrophobic, MRI can feel uncomfortable because you lie inside a tube. Tell the technologist beforehand; they can keep the door open, play music, or give you a call button to press if you need a break. Some centers offer open MRI machines that are less enclosed.

Contrast dye can cause a warm or flushed feeling, a metallic taste, or mild nausea — all normal and temporary. Serious allergic reactions are rare but possible; tell the technologist immediately if you feel chest pain, difficulty breathing, or severe swelling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need my doctor's referral before I schedule?

Yes. SimonMed centers require a doctor's order or prescription to schedule an imaging appointment. Call your doctor's office and ask them to send the order to the imaging center, or ask for a copy to bring with you when you call to schedule.

Can I eat or drink before my appointment?

It depends on the scan. Most X-rays, ultrasounds, and mammograms have no fasting requirement. Some CT and MRI scans do require fasting, especially if contrast dye is involved. Ask when you schedule so you know what to expect.

Will I get my results the same day?

No. A radiologist reviews the images and writes a report, which usually takes 24 to 48 hours. Results go to your doctor, not directly to you. Contact your doctor's office a few days after your scan to discuss the findings.

What if I'm pregnant or think I might be?

Tell the center before your scan. X-rays and CT scans use radiation, which may not be safe in pregnancy. The center may reschedule, use ultrasound instead, or take precautions to minimize exposure. It's better to mention it than to have the scan and worry afterward.

Can someone come with me to my appointment?

Yes. A family member or friend can accompany you to check-in and wait in the reception area. They usually cannot go into the imaging room itself, but you can ask the center about their specific policy.