Dignity Health Advanced Imaging - Santa Cruz, CA I

An imaging center is a medical facility that provides diagnostic imaging tests. These tests help physicians identify and monitor health conditions by creating detailed images of the inside of the body. With the information they provide, your care team can make an accurate diagnosis and plan appropriate treatment. Imaging centers are staffed by trained technologists and radiologists who focus on patient safety, comfort and clear results.

Computed tomography (CT) uses special X-ray equipment to obtain image data from different angles around the body. The computer takes the data and creates visual images of the inside of your body. CT imaging is particularly useful because it can show several types of tissue with great clarity, including lung, bone, soft tissue and blood vessels. A CT scan helps radiologists diagnose conditions such as:

• Cancers

• Heart and vascular disease

• Infectious disease

• Musculoskeletal disorders

• Trauma

Learn more about CT scans

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a safe diagnostic imaging technique that uses a magnetic field and radio waves to produce pictures of your body. Because it does not use X-rays, there is no radiation exposure. MRIs provide clearer images of your body's internal structures compared to other imaging techniques, particularly of soft tissues like the brain, spinal cord, muscle and certain internal organs.

Because MRI uses a magnetic field, this procedure can’t be performed on people with metal in their bodies. This includes:

• Cardiac pacemakers or defibrillators

• Certain brain aneurysm clips

• Metal fragments in the eye

• Neurostimulators

Learn more about MRI tests

In most cases, yes. Your doctor will provide a referral for imaging services based on your symptoms or condition. Please check with us or your health care provider to confirm.

During your imaging visit on Commercial Way in Santa Cruz, a technologist will explain the procedure and answer any questions before the exam begins. Depending on the area of your body to be scanned, you may need to change into a gown or pajamas. MRIs and CT scans are both painless procedures, lasting about 30–60 minutes. After the exam, images are reviewed by a radiologist, and results are shared with your ordering physician.

Yes. Our imaging center follows strict safety guidelines to ensure exams are performed safely. Our technologists use the lowest radiation dose necessary for CT scans. MRI does not use radiation. Your care team will review your medical history to ensure the exam is appropriate for you.

For many exams, like X-rays, no preparation is needed. However, some tests, including CT scans or MRIs that use contrast dye, may require you to avoid eating or drinking beforehand. We will share specific instructions before your appointment.

You can typically view your imaging results through your patient portal. We recommend discussing your results with your health care provider to understand what they mean for your health.

Many imaging exams are covered by insurance, but coverage can vary by plan and test. We recommend checking with your insurance provider for specific coverage details before your appointment.