FAQ
Frequently asked questions.
Straight answers about appointments, preparation, safety, costs and results. Can't find yours? Call 09 638 5169 - a person answers.
Appointments
5
Preparation
3
Safety
4
Costs & funding
4
Results & portal
4
For referrers
2
Still unsure?
Call 09 638 5169 or start a booking and ask in the notes.
Appointments
Do I need an appointment?
Not for a standard X-ray - walk in with your referral Monday to Friday during opening hours. Ultrasound, CT, guided injections and echocardiograms are booked; request online or call and we'll confirm within two hours of receiving your enquiry.
Do I need a referral?
Yes. All imaging in New Zealand needs a valid referral, including X-ray. X-ray is walk-in with no appointment; everything else needs a referral from a GP, specialist, physio or other registered health practitioner. We accept every referral form - you may choose your imaging provider.
How do I book?
Click "Book a scan" anywhere on this site and answer a few short questions, or call 09 638 5169. We call back within two hours of receiving your enquiry to confirm the time and the exact price.
What should I bring?
Your referral, photo ID, your ACC claim number or insurer membership details, a ProXtra voucher if you have one for X-ray or ultrasound, and any previous imaging of the same area.
What if I need to cancel?
Call as early as you can. Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours' notice may incur a $100 fee.
Preparation
Do I need to fast?
Abdominal ultrasound: nothing to eat or drink for 6 hours. Some CT scans: no food for 2–4 hours. X-ray, MSK ultrasound, injections and echo: no preparation. We confirm exactly what to do when we call.
Why do I need a full bladder?
For female pelvic and early pregnancy scans, a full bladder lifts the bowel and gives a clear window. Drink 750 ml of water an hour before and don't empty your bladder.
Can I take my usual medication?
Yes. Tell us about blood thinners, diabetes medication (especially metformin before contrast CT) and any allergies.
Safety
Is medical imaging safe?
Ultrasound and echocardiography use no radiation. X-ray and CT use small, controlled doses; our CT cuts radiation by up to 40% with ASiR Smart Dose and is IANZ accredited. Your radiologist tailors every scan to the question asked.
What if I am pregnant or might be?
Tell us before any X-ray or CT. We'll talk it through with you and your referrer - often the scan can be adapted, shielded or deferred. Ultrasound is safe in pregnancy.
Is CT claustrophobic?
Rarely. A CT scanner is a wide, short ring, not a long tunnel. You can see out at all times and speak to the technologist.
Can children be scanned?
Yes. A parent can stay in the room wearing a lead apron for X-ray and CT. Children 0–17 receive $60 off CT and ultrasound. We do not provide sedation on site.
Costs & funding
How much does it cost?
Every price is on our prices page. We keep hi-tech imaging like CT scans affordable and accessible, and we confirm the exact figure before your appointment.
Does ACC cover my scan?
For accepted injury claims, ACC covers X-ray, ultrasound and guided injections with a $50 surcharge. CT under ACC needs prior ACC approval; we'll check for you.
Do you accept Southern Cross, nib or AIA?
Yes. We are a Southern Cross Affiliated Provider, part of the nib First Choice Network, and accept AIA. Give us your membership number and we handle pre-approval and direct billing.
What is the ProXtra voucher?
A voucher some ProCare GPs issue for subsidised imaging. Bring it with your referral and we'll take care of the paperwork.
Results & portal
When will I get my results?
Your doctor receives the report first: reporting is completed within 24 hours on working days. Urgent findings are phoned through.
How do I see my images?
After your visit we text you a secure login to the patient portal. Images appear within hours; the written report is completed within 24 hours on working days and released to your portal after your doctor has had time to discuss it with you.
Why can't I see my report straight away?
Reports can contain technical findings that need context. We give your referrer time to explain them to you first, then release the report to your portal.
Can another doctor get my images?
Yes - share from the portal, ask us to send them electronically, or request a disc ($30).
For referrers
How do I refer?
Send an e-referral from the referrers page, fax or post your usual form, or have the patient bring it in. Any referral form is accepted.
How fast are reports?
X-ray same day; CT and ultrasound within 24 hours; echo within 48. Critical findings are phoned by the reporting radiologist.
Still have a question? Ask a person.
Call 09 638 5169, Monday to Friday. Or book online and tell us in the notes.
or call
09 638 5169
