If a hospital orders imaging scans in the United States, diagnostic images are taken to evaluate your condition before treatment decisions are made. This may affect how long you remain at the facility and may result in additional charges from separate providers.
Imaging is used when a physical exam alone is not sufficient to determine the cause of symptoms.
What happens
If imaging is ordered, you may be sent to a radiology department or imaging unit.
Common types of imaging include:
- X-ray
- CT scan
- MRI
- Ultrasound
During the process:
- You may be asked to wait until equipment is available
- You may need to change clothing or remove metal objects
- Contrast material may be used in some cases
The scan itself may take minutes or longer depending on the type.
After the scan:
- Images are reviewed by a radiologist
- A report is generated and sent to the treating physician, which may lead to situations where doctors recommend additional tests based on the findings.
Results may be available during the same visit or later.
What determines the outcome
The outcome depends on:
- The urgency of your condition
- The type of imaging required
- Availability of equipment and staff
- Whether additional interpretation is needed
Doctors may adjust treatment decisions after reviewing imaging results.
Not all scans produce immediate conclusions.
What it may lead to
Common outcome:
- Imaging helps confirm or rule out a condition
- Treatment plan is updated based on results
Possible escalation:
- Additional imaging or tests ordered, including cases where hospitals order laboratory tests to further evaluate the condition.
- Referral to specialists, including situations where specialists are called during ER visits for further assessment.
- Extended time in the facility
Worst realistic outcome:
- Delays in diagnosis if imaging results take time
- Discovery of more complex conditions requiring further care
- Higher overall medical costs due to multiple services
Imaging often leads to additional evaluation rather than a final answer on its own.
Common escalation triggers
- Unclear findings on initial scans
- Symptoms requiring detailed evaluation
- Abnormal results that require confirmation
- Changes in condition during care
What this depends on
Outcomes may vary based on:
- Type of facility and available equipment
- Timing and patient volume
- Whether scans are performed on-site or externally
- Insurance coverage and approval processes
Imaging workflows can differ between hospitals.
Who controls the process
Imaging decisions are made by physicians.
Scans are performed by radiology departments or imaging providers.
Interpretation is typically done by radiologists, and billing may come from:
- The hospital
- The imaging provider
- The interpreting physician
Last reviewed: April 2026
This page describes typical operational outcomes. Individual cases vary.