Ultrasound imaging is a safe, non-invasive procedure that uses low-power, inaudible sound waves to produce detailed, real-time images and videos of tissues and organs. This versatile technology can assess areas such as the heart, liver, breasts, muscles, tendons, and blood vessels.

The ultrasound probe sends sound waves into your body, which then reflect back as echoes. These echoes are captured and converted by our advanced technology into high-quality images and videos. These images are reviewed by our radiologist to provide accurate and reliable diagnostic reports.

Ultrasound is used to examine, diagnose, and monitor a variety of conditions, including:

• Pregnancy and fetal development
• Muscle tears, joint inflammation, and tendon injuries
• Lumps, growths, or abnormal masses
• Blood flow and clotting disorders such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
• Heart conditions and vascular health

Ultrasound also plays an important role in guiding procedures like injections and biopsies, ensuring precision and patient safety.

For most ultrasounds, no specific preparation is required. However, certain scans may require:

• Fasting for up to eight hours (e.g., for abdominal ultrasounds)
• Drinking water and holding your bladder for pelvic or pregnancy ultrasounds

Our medical receptionists will provide detailed instructions when you book your appointment, ensuring you are fully prepared for your scan.

We recommend wearing loose, comfortable clothing to allow easy access to the area being examined. Arrive 5–10 minutes early to allow time for your referral to be checked and for any questions you may have to be addressed.

At Precious Health Radiology, we prioritise your comfort and aim to make your ultrasound experience as smooth and anxiety-free as possible. Our waiting and examination rooms are designed to feel welcoming and relaxing, more like home than a clinic.

When you arrive
You’ll be greeted by one of our friendly medical receptionists, who will confirm your details and assist with any questions. A sonographer will then introduce themselves and guide you to our comfortable ultrasound room, equipped with advanced imaging technology, a scanning bed, seating for family or carers, soft background music, and calming décor like plants and artwork. Wheelchairs are available upon request to assist with mobility.

During your ultrasound

• The sonographer will explain the process and advise which clothing or jewellery may need to be removed. A box will be provided for your belongings, and you’ll be offered an examination gown or sheet for privacy. Changing facilities are available, and assistance can be provided upon request.
• Depending on the procedure, you’ll be asked to lie or sit on the scanning bed. A water-based gel will be applied to the area being examined to enhance the quality of the images.
• The sonographer will gently move the ultrasound probe over your skin to capture images. Some pressure may be applied to improve image quality, which might feel slightly uncomfortable but shouldn’t cause pain. You may be asked to adjust your position, breathing, or bladder status for specific scans.

For procedures requiring a transvaginal ultrasound, the sonographer will provide a consent form and explain the process thoroughly. Privacy is ensured, with changing areas and the option to proceed only if you’re comfortable.

Duration of the procedure
Ultrasound scans typically take between 20–60 minutes, depending on the area being examined. Our reception team will inform you of the expected duration when you book your appointment. The sonographer will review each image during the scan to ensure they meet our high standards of quality.

After your appointment
Once the scan is complete, you’ll be provided with paper towels to remove the gel before changing back into your clothing. If you have any concerns or questions, we’re here to assist at any point during your visit.

To ensure a smooth and efficient appointment, please bring the following:

• Your referral form from your healthcare provider
• An up-to-date Medicare card
• Any relevant healthcare, pension, or student cards

For a seamless Medicare rebate, ensure your debit card is linked to Medicare to avoid delays in processing refunds.

If specific preparation is required for your ultrasound, such as fasting or drinking water, please follow the instructions provided when you booked your appointment.

Your images will be carefully reviewed by one of our radiologists, and a detailed report will be prepared for your referring health practitioner within 48 hours (excluding emergencies).

The report will be sent directly to your referring provider via fax or email. To ensure timely follow-up and care, please have an appointment booked with your referring health practitioner to discuss your results.

At Precious Health Radiology, your safety and well-being are paramount. General ultrasounds are a completely safe, painless, and non-invasive procedure that uses sound waves rather than radiation, making it suitable for a wide range of diagnostic purposes.

Our ultrasound rooms are cleaned thoroughly, and we maintain the highest hygiene standards to ensure a safe and comfortable environment for every patient.

Our safety practices include:

• Sanitising ultrasound beds and equipment with medical-grade wipes after each use
• Radiographers and sonographers wearing surgical masks during all procedures
• Strict sick leave policies for staff experiencing cold, flu, or gastro-like symptoms

We kindly ask all visitors to wear a face mask, which we can provide upon request. If you feel unwell, we recommend rescheduling your appointment to ensure the safety of all patients and staff.

This service is bulk-billed for patients with a valid Medicare card.

For non-Medicare card holders, we accept the following payment methods:

• Cash
• All major credit cards
• EFTPOS

If you have any questions about fees or payment options, please feel free to contact our friendly reception team before your appointment.

You will receive an SMS, email and a courtesy call in the lead-up to the appointment; we reserve the right to cancel if we are unable to confirm your attendance.

We understand that it is sometimes necessary to cancel or reschedule – please call us to do so. Appointments not attended will incur a $20 administration fee, billed at your next appointment.

Please reschedule if you are experiencing any cold, flu or gastro-like symptoms.