Memorial Hermann has established one of Houston's largest network of high-quality Imaging Centers. Once you've selected your preferred location, it is important that you carefully follow your provider's instructions and understand the information below. Our streamlined processes are designed to maximize your comfort and minimize stress.
Imaging Center Benefits
- All exams are interpreted by board-certified radiologists
- Results are sent directly to your health care provider, and are available online through your secure My Memorial Hermann™ patient portal account so you can get answers more quickly
Before you make an imaging appointment, talk to your provider about your options. You can utilize our Centers with any provider authorization for imaging services.
How Do I Schedule My Appointment and Prepare for My Visit?
- Get a health care provider's order. All imaging procedures require a health care provider order, except screening mammograms. For more information or to find a provider, call 713-222-CARE (2273) or find a doctor.
- Schedule your appointment. Schedule an appointment online or call (877) 704-8700. For your convenience, we offer early morning, evening and weekend appointments. Next-day appointments are available at most of our Centers, insurance permitting. We accept most major insurance plans.
- Follow all instructions. You will be given instructions if your test requires specific preparation (for example, how long to fast prior to the test). Please bring the following items with you to your appointment:
- Driver's license/photo ID
- Insurance card
- Provider order form
- Insurance co-payment/deductible
- Completed patient forms
For the protection of minors, children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Safety Recommendations for CT Scans, MRIs, X-rays and Ultrasounds
In preparation for your exam, be sure to follow all instructions you receive, which may include dietary restrictions, medications guidelines or other important directions. You may have received these instructions by phone when making your appointment, email or through MyChart via a text link.
The following information includes additional recommendations for a safe and comfortable exam experience.
What to Wear
Please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing with no metal parts (including zippers). Depending on the type of exam, you may be asked to change into a gown or scrubs. For your safety, please wear sneakers or other stable non-slip shoes. You may be given grip socks to wear during your exam if needed. For the safety of your belongings and to keep the process moving smoothly, we recommend leaving all jewelry (body jewelry, piercings, wedding rings, etc.) at home.
Arriving for Your Exam
While not required, for your safety, you're welcome to have someone accompany you to your exam. If you use a cane, walker or other mobility aid, we encourage you to bring it to your appointment for safe navigation throughout the facility. Wheelchairs are available if additional assistance is needed. When you arrive, please let our staff know if you are feeling unwell or have any safety concerns.
After you complete the registration process, you will be escorted to an area to prepare for your procedure. Lockers are provided to securely store your personal items during your exam.
During Your Exam
At the time of your exam, your technologist may provide additional instructions related to your safety and comfort. We welcome any questions you may have throughout your visit.
Imaging Orders
An order is required from your referring health care provider to complete your imaging service. A screening mammogram does not require an order.
Payment
Payment is required at the time of service and can be made using a check, credit or debit card. The registrar can answer any questions regarding the required amount. Cash is not collected at our imaging centers.
The Radiologist interpreting your diagnostic images will bill separately for their professional services.
Wait Time
In most cases, the imaging order is verified and authorized prior to your appointment; however this will be confirmed during the registration process. Our team works to accommodate walk-ins as schedules permit. If you do not have an appointment, please allow additional time to prepare for your visit and check for available procedure times. Due to the wide array of imaging services provided at our imaging centers, appointment availability can vary with each location.
Imaging Exam
After you complete the registration process, you will be escorted to an area to prepare for your procedure. Lockers are provided to securely store your personal items during your exam. Once the diagnostic imaging exam has been performed, you may have a short wait while the technologist and radiologist review the images for clarity, sharpness and orientation. In some cases, the examination may be repeated, or a different imaging test may be done to gather more information. The technologist will communicate this at the time of your visit.
There is minimal patient recovery for most diagnostic imaging examinations. However, some exams like X-ray angiography may require a slightly longer recovery period.
If you have been given a sedative as part of the procedure, you will need to have someone else drive you home