X-Ray

When you need an X-ray, you deserve compassionate care.

X-rays (or radiographs) use safe amounts of radiation to create images of the inside of your body. These medical images help discover concerns that may need treatment. X-rays are safe for most people, including children.

Novant Health provides X-rays when and where you need them in a variety of settings, including clinics and emergency rooms. You can likely find an urgent care with X-ray near you.

What an X-Ray is Used to Diagnose

We often use X-rays to see if you have broken or dislocated bones and joints (such as foot X-ray and shoulder X-ray). However, X-rays can check for concerns just about anywhere in your body, including your internal organs. In particular, your care team may recommend an X-ray to diagnose conditions like:

  • Abnormally curved spine (scoliosis)
  • Arthritis
  • Blockage
  • Cancer, particularly lung and bone
  • Injury
  • Infection
  • Lung problems, such as pneumonia and lung cancer (chest X-ray)
  • Presence of a foreign object

For Your Safety

It's possible you may be given a contrast solution for this exam. This helps make your images as clear as possible. If a contrast solution is needed, it's possible you may:

  • Be given the solution through an injection or intravenous line (IV)
  • Need to adjust your eating and drinking habits before the exam
  • Have some mild side effects

When contrast is needed, it's possible the scan could have more risk for certain people. Make sure your care team knows:

  • If you have any allergies at all, especially to iodine or contrast solution
  • Your long-term and recent medical history
  • Any medications or supplements you take

Allergic reactions are extremely rare. If you do have a reaction, our expert providers are trained to provide the help you need.

A healthcare provider is resting her hand on a patients shoulder as she is talking and preparing her for an imaging scan.

Your Well-Being Is Our Priority.

If you have any anxiety about your imaging procedure, reach out to your care team. Novant Health's experienced providers are ready to listen and help put you at ease.

Find Imaging Centers Near You.

The care team referring you for imaging may help you set up your appointment at a particular location. You can also choose to schedule your imaging appointment at the imaging center most convenient to you. Visit individual imaging center websites to learn which specific types of imaging are offered at or to schedule at that location.

The Importance of Mammograms

Getting a mammogram is one of the easiest, yet most important, steps you can take to protect your breast health. Did you know you can schedule your routine screening mammogram online in minutes, without a referral from your doctor?

Use the following links to view locations near you and choose a convenient date and time for your mammogram. (Patients in the Wilmington area can conveniently schedule using MyChart.) Many locations offer extended hours, making it easy for you to take control of your health.

Woman having a mammography examination at a clinic with a female technician.

No Primary Care Provider?

Use our Physician Matcher to find the provider that best matches your needs and preferences, including location, specialty, years of experience and gender.

Physician greeting a new patient

Referring a Patient?

If you're a referring physician or healthcare professional, we can help you find the right specialist, programs and services for your patient.