FAQ

We’re here to help you find the answers you need

We’ve compiled a list of the most common types of questions we receive from our customers relating to their exams and procedures. If we haven’t covered your particular question on this FAQ page, you’re welcome to contact us directly for additional assistance.

Scheduling

What are your operating hours?
Each center has its own operating hours that can be found on the center's listing page. The majority of our centers are open from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday to Friday with a number of locations also offering extended early morning, evening, and weekend appointments.
How do I book an appointment?
Booking your imaging appointment is easy. You can call the center of your choice directly using the phone number on the center’s location page on our website. Alternatively, you can complete our online booking form and a representative will call you back to confirm the appointment time and details.
If the phones are busy, is there another way to schedule my appointment?
From time to time throughout the day we may experience a surge in call volume that often results in longer on-hold wait times. If you are in a hurry, you can complete our online booking form and a representative will call you back to confirm the appointment time and details.
How soon can I book an appointment? Can I fit my appointment into my work schedule?
Our centers offer extended hours, including early mornings, evenings and weekends. In many cases, we can schedule you for the same day you call for an appointment. Our goal is to schedule your appointment at the best possible time for you.
What if I am unable to keep my appointment?
If you are unable to keep your appointment, please call your local center and your physician will be notified and your examination rescheduled. If transportation is an issue, the center can help make arrangements for you.

Exam Preparation

How do I prepare for my exam?
Prior to your exam, you will receive instructions on how to prepare for it. For specific information on what happens during your exam and what you can expect from the process please visit our exam preparation page. You can contribute a great deal to the quality and success of your imaging study by learning about the process beforehand.
What type of clothing should I wear for my exam?
Wear comfortable, metal-free clothing (i.e. sweatpants, T-shirt, shorts, metal-free bra, etc.) do not wear leggings if undergoing an MRI as they sometimes contain metal particles. It may be necessary for you to change into our patient gowns or scrubs depending on the area being scanned.
Do you provide lockers for personal belongings?
Secure lockers will be provided for your clothing and purse. We advise patients to leave all jewelry and valuables at home.
Will I need a driver?
Some procedures require a driver for your safety (i.e. if sedation or anesthetic are administered). When the appointment is made, you will be told if a driver is needed. Please make the necessary arrangements or let us know in advance so we can make arrangements for you. Due to the current COVID-19 restrictions, you cannot be accompanied by another person within the center.

Appointments

Can someone accompany me to my appointment?
Due to the current COVID-19 restrictions, patients cannot be accompanied within the center by another person unless the patient is a minor or has disabilities that require assistance. If someone is driving you to your appointment they will need to wait outside. Please call ahead to the center if you have questions about this policy.
What do I need to bring for my exam?
To avoid delays or the postponement of your exam, please remember to bring your complete insurance information including all insurance cards, a valid photo ID, as well as your physician's referral.
  • For workers compensation claims, bring your claim number, date of injury, and all pertinent workers compensation information with you to your visit.
  • For PIP/auto accident claims, bring your claim number, date of injury, auto insurance card, adjustors information, and all pertinent PIP/auto information with you to your visit.
Do you offer onsite parking?
Most centers offer complimentary onsite parking directly in front of the entrance or within a short walking distance.
Are your centers wheelchair accessible?
Our centers are wheelchair accessible and in some cases offer disabled parking spots directly in front of the center.
Why do I need to be at the center at least 15 minutes before my exam time?
We ask that you arrive 15 minutes prior to your exam time so that you may be checked in for your visit.
What if I still have questions prior to my exam?
There will be time for a qualified technologist to answer all your questions before the exam begins. We invite you to call your local center with any immediate questions or concerns.

Services

What types of services do you provide?
Southwest X-ray offers 9 types of procedures and over many different exams. Our procedures include MRI, CT, PET/CT, X-Ray, Ultrasound, Nuclear Medicine, DEXA, Biopsy and Mammography. Visit our procedures page to learn more.
Where can I find a list of exams that are performed at your centers?
We perform many types of imaging exams at our centers. For a full list and a brief description of each exam, please visit this page.
Do you offer Open MRI?
We have Open MRI machines in addition to more traditional MRI. They create a more pleasant experience for young patients or those who are anxious, claustrophobic, obese, or just need more room.
What could disqualify me from having an MRI scan?
Situations and conditions that may affect your safety should be discussed with your doctor prior to having an MRI. Be sure to immediately notify a member of our staff if you have any of the following: Metal in your body, implanted medical or electronic devices, pregnancy, tattoos and piercings, kidney or liver disease.
Who interprets the results of my scans?
A radiologist will look at and interpret your scans. He or she will then write up and send a radiology report detailing the results to your doctor, who will then share the main findings with you and talk to you about your next steps.

Medical Records

When will the results of my examination be available?
Results are available as soon as completed. The radiologist interprets each examination and dictates a report. The report is transcribed and sent to your referring physician’s office as soon as it is completed. Please contact your physician directly for information about your results.
How will I get my results of my exam?
Your referring physician will have a report from our radiologist usually within 24 hours of the completion of your scan unless requested sooner by your physician.
Can I view my results online?
We offer an online portal for patients to view their results online 24/7. Please select the Portal tab on our website
May I get a copy of my films?
We send your films or CD to your physician, who can provide them to you upon request. If you need an additional copy, there may be a nominal charge. Please use this online form to contact our Medical Records Department for information.
How long are my records kept on file?
We maintain the films and reports from your exam(s) in accordance with state laws (in most cases, for a minimum of five to seven years).

Billing & Payment

What forms of payment does Akumin accept?
We currently accept all major credit cards, debit cards, Letter of Protection (LOP), Personal Injury, Workers Comp, and all insurances. For patients experiencing a demonstrated financial hardship, we can offer cash discounts and payment plans.
I have a question about my statement who do I contact for information?
For any questions regarding your statement, including your Explanation of Benefits (EOB), please contact our Billing Department via our online contact form, they will be happy to assist you.
I don't have medical insurance. Can I get a price quotation on my procedure?
If you do not have medical insurance and/or you are concerned about paying for your procedure, call the clinic number of the location you want to schedule your appointment at. We'll give you an estimate and work with you in setting up a payment plan.
OR
Fill out an online inquiry on our 'contact us' page.
Note: Please indicate the type of exam requested by your physician so that an accurate price may be provided.

Insurance

What insurances do you accept?
We participate in most insurance plans, managed care programs, and accept workers compensation, PIP, and Letters of Protection. If you need help paying out-of-pocket costs, we offer cash discounts and payment plans for patients experiencing a demonstrated financial hardship.
What if you are not contracted with my personal health insurance plan?
Although we attempt to contract with all carriers, sometimes we are unable to reach an agreement. When applicable, we will accept your in-network benefits.
When accepting in-network benefits, does this include my co-pay and deductibles?
Yes, we will collect amounts equal to your in-network benefits and will notify your insurance plan accordingly. Deductibles and co-insurance must be paid at the time of the examination.
Do I need pre-authorization from my health care policy or plan?
Some plans do require pre-authorization before you receive healthcare services. Check with your insurance company to determine if this is necessary as you could be responsible for all charges if proper authorization or referrals are not obtained. Your insurance company can also answer any questions you may have about what is covered on your plan.
How does the insurance verification process work?
We contact your insurance provider and confirm your benefits along with providing notification that we will honor the co-insurance portion of your benefits.
Am I responsible for the patient portion reflected on my Explanation of Benefits (EOB) I receive from my insurance carrier?
This may not be an accurate reflection of your balance. You will receive a statement from us indicating a final amount.

COVID-19

Where can I find information on how your company is addressing COVID-19?
We continue to monitor new information about COVID-19, and we are adapting our care practices to reflect the latest recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control (“CDC”), Department of Health (“DOH”), and other overseeing regulatory bodies that impact our business. To find the latest updates and view the steps we are taking to ensure we maintain a healthy environment for all, please visit our dedicated COVID-19 resources section.
Have there been changes to the center operating hours due to COVID-19?
Patients are encouraged to check our website prior to their appointment to confirm current facility status and scheduling. We want to assure our patients that we value their safety and are observing heightened precautions throughout this time.
If I'm worried about my risk of exposure to COVID-19, can I make changes to my appointment?
Subject to local public health orders intended to fight the novel coronavirus, some Akumin patients with scheduled screening studies may experience a deferral of their studies. Patients are encouraged to contact their Akumin center to confirm their appointment. We will respect and accommodate any patient’s request to defer their imaging procedures to a later date, particularly as it relates to any non-urgent imaging service.
Have additional COVID-19 safety measures have been implemented?
We continue to follow CDC and state and local health department guidelines relating to infectious disease protocols. We are pre-screening individuals entering our facilities and limiting the number of individuals in our centers and applying other protocols at all of our centers to protect patients, personnel, and the broader community.
Are you pre-screening patients for COVID-19 symptoms?
In our efforts to protect the community amidst the growing health concerns of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have implemented a screening process for patients before entry, based on CDC guidelines. The screening interview questions will be used to make medically appropriate decisions regarding imaging services locations and urgency.

About Akumin

Is Southwest X-ray part of Akumin?
Yes, Akumin acquired Southwest X-Ray, LP in August 2019.
How many centers does Akumin have?
As of July 2021, Akumin owns and/or operates approximately 138 imaging centers in 8 states.
What states does Akumin have centers in?
Akumin has centers in Florida, Texas, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas and Massachusetts.
Are Akumin's centers accredited?
Akumin is accredited by both The American College of Radiology (ACR) and The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). This accreditation assures patients that their prescribed imaging test will meet the highest level of imaging quality and radiation safety. Visit our accreditation page to learn more.
How many radiologists does Akumin have?
Akumin works with a team of over 135 subspecialty and multi-specialty radiologists. This allows us to offer a level of diagnostic capabilities and medical knowledge that may not be available at independent imaging centers.
What radiology subspecialties does Akumin cover?
Akumin offers five areas of specialized services to cover a range of diseases and injuries, these cover Neurology, Musculoskeletal, Cardiac, Body, and Women's imaging.
How do I contact management or a specific department at Akumin?
For a prompt response to any inquiries to our business we recommend you complete the Contact Us form. This form will allow you to reach the following departments: Billing, Insurance, Exan Related, Medical Records, Customer Service, Investor Relations, and Careers.
How can I apply to work at Akumin?
Akumin is always looking for talented people to join its team. To view open positions and/or to submit your resume, please visit the Careers Section on the Akumin website.

Resources

Does Akumin have bilingual staff?
Akumin has bilingual (Spanish speaking) staff at many of its centers and within the scheduling department. Please contact your local center to confirm if they have bilingual team members on staff.