General X-Ray

An x-ray is a painless medical test that helps doctors diagnose medical conditions. The rays produced by the x-ray machine pass through the soft tissues such as skin and muscle, before being blocked by solid structures such as bones and teeth. This then creates a shadow effect, which is captured and displayed on a computer screen.

Different body tissues vary in their absorption of x-rays. This means bones, soft tissues and other internal features can be seen on the screen in varying shades of gray.

We also have Radiologist on site at all times to report images as they are performed. This ensures an accurate and timely diagnosis for all patients. X-rays are usually interpreted and reported within the hour.

Our X-ray department is open between the hours of 8:30AM to 5:00PM during the week, with the exception of Thursdays, when the department opens at 8:00AM.

An X-ray image of the hands

Preparation for your x-ray

There is no preparation needed and there are no after effects. Our x-ray department is open between the hours of 8:30AM to 4:30PM. You do not need to make any appointment for an x-ray, however you will need to make an appointment for additional procedures such as Ultrasound or MRI.

You may be asked to remove some or all of your clothes and to wear a gown during the exam. You may also be asked to remove jewellery, eye glasses and any metal objects or clothing that might interfere with the x-ray images.

Women should always inform their physician or x-ray technologist if there is any possibility that they may be pregnant. Many imaging tests are not performed during pregnancy because radiation can be harmful to the foetus. If an x-ray is necessary, precautions will be taken to minimise radiation exposure to the baby.

If the cost of your X-ray is to be covered by ACC, there will be a surcharge which is payable on the day of your exam. Please read our Accounts and Surcharges page for more information →

During the procedure

A radiographer, one of our staff trained in operating the x-ray equipment, will call you through to have your x-ray taken. Depending on the examination requested, you may be asked to stand, sit, or lie down on a bed.

It is important that you remain still when the x-ray is being taken. The radiographer may ask you to hold your breath for a brief moment in order to get a clear image. The entire procedure usually takes around 10 minutes.

After the procedure

Following your x-ray, the images will be electronically sent to one of our doctors for interpretation. Your doctor will also be able to view these images from their clinic.

If your doctor has specified it on your referral form, you may be given your films or a CD to take away with you. Our Radiologist’s report will be sent to your doctor electronically. To learn how to open the images on the CD, visit our Images on Disc page.

More Information
  • Previous films and CDs may be of use to our Radiologists when they are interpreting your x-ray. Please bring these with you to your appointment.
  • Park in the basement car parks marked ‘Medical Centre’, otherwise you may be towed. Read our Parking and Transportation page for more information.
  • We are located in Building C of Ascot Office Park. Take the lift to level 2 for x-ray examinations.
  • Online access to images and reports

    Online access to images and reports with either InteleConnect or InteleViewer.