At Gordon Memorial Health Services, we provide a full range of diagnostic imaging to support your health. Our imaging team operates Monday through Friday. All images are interpreted by board-certified radiologists from Advanced Medical Imaging of Lincoln, Nebraska.
To schedule any imaging exam, call 308-337-4879.
Our Imaging Services
CT Scans
CT scans use a focused X-ray beam to create detailed cross-sectional images of body tissues and organs. Dense tissues like bones appear white, muscles and brain tissue show as shades of gray, and air-filled spaces such as lungs appear black.
Many CT scans require preparation instructions given by your practitioner or our Imaging Department. Oral contrast is commonly taken before the scan to highlight the digestive tract, and iodine-based contrast may be injected to make blood vessels and organs more visible.
Our CT scanner is the GE Optima 660 64-slice model, which provides quick, high-quality images. The exam is painless and fast, with the scanner rotating around you while you lie on the moving table.
DEXA Bone Density Scans
The DEXA scan measures bone density to assess for conditions such as osteopenia or osteoporosis in both men and women. It is a quick, painless procedure focusing on the spine and hips.
Osteoporosis causes gradual bone thinning, increasing fracture risk. Early detection through DEXA helps your provider recommend a personalized plan to protect your bone health.
Our DEXA scanner was made possible thanks to the generous support of the Overmass Foundation, greatly benefiting our community’s health.
3D Mammography
Our new advanced 3D mammography machine offers clearer images, earlier breast cancer detection, and fewer false positives. It’s also designed to be more comfortable for patients.
Who should get mammograms?
- Women age 40 and older for annual screenings
- Women with family history or risk factors should talk to their doctor about earlier or additional testing
- Women with dense breast tissue for clearer evaluation
- Anyone experiencing symptoms such as lumps or pain
We recommend annual mammograms starting at age 40. If you have a family history or symptoms, talk with your provider about when to begin screenings.
MRI and MRA
MRI, or Magnetic Resonance Imaging, creates detailed images of your body using a strong magnet and radio waves. Your doctor may order an MRI to look more closely at the brain, spine, joints, or internal organs if you’re experiencing pain, weakness, or other symptoms. It’s a safe test that does not use radiation and helps diagnose conditions like injuries, tumors, or nerve problems.
MRA, or Magnetic Resonance Angiography, is a special type of MRI used to see blood vessels. It’s often used to check for blocked arteries, aneurysms, or other circulation issues. If you’ve had symptoms of stroke or concerns about blood flow, your provider may recommend an MRA.
MRI exams are available every Thursday at Gordon Memorial and take about 45 to 60 minutes. Most results are sent to your provider within 48 business hours. Our team will guide you through each step and make sure you are comfortable and prepared.
Ultrasounds
Ultrasound uses sound waves to create live images of your organs, tissues, and blood flow.
This safe, radiation-free imaging is often used for pregnancy, abdominal pain, or thyroid and kidney concerns. Some ultrasounds require fasting or a full bladder. Your doctor’s office or our team will let you know how to prepare.
Breast Ultrasound
Breast ultrasound is used to look at lumps or follow up on mammogram results. It helps determine if a lump is solid or filled with fluid and is often used to guide biopsies.
Echocardiograms and Vascular Ultrasound
These tests evaluate blood flow and heart function using Doppler technology. They are available every other Wednesday and are read by specialists at Strong Ultrasound.
X-rays
X-ray imaging is one of the most common and effective tools used to diagnose a wide range of health conditions. These tests are fast, non-invasive, and use a small amount of radiation to create images of bones and other internal structures. The entire process usually takes just a few minutes, and results are interpreted by board-certified radiologists from Advanced Medical Imaging in Lincoln, NE.
Your provider may order an X-ray if you’re experiencing pain, injury, or symptoms that could involve your chest, abdomen, spine, or limbs. X-rays are especially useful for identifying fractures, infections, arthritis, and certain lung or abdominal conditions.
Prior Authorization and Scheduling
Some imaging exams may require approval from your insurance provider before they can be performed. This is called prior authorization. Common services that may require this include CT scans, MRI exams, and certain ultrasound procedures. Authorization timelines vary by insurance company and may take a few days to up to fifteen days.
Our staff works closely with your healthcare provider and insurance company to complete this process for you. Once authorization is received, we will call you to schedule your exam at a time that works best for you.
If you have questions about your insurance approval or want to check the status of your appointment, please contact the Radiology Department at 308-337-4879. We are happy to assist you.
Preparing for Your Radiology Exam
Your provider and our radiology staff will give you specific instructions, but here is a general overview of what to expect when preparing for your exam.
- CT Scans: You may be asked not to eat or drink for a few hours before the test. Some scans require contrast dye.
- Ultrasounds: Abdominal scans often require that patients do not eat or drink anything for a set amount of time. Pelvic scans may need a full bladder.
- MRI: Wear comfortable clothing without zippers, buttons, or metal. Remove all jewelry and piercings. Complete the safety questionnaire.
- DEXA: No prep needed but try to wear comfortable clothing without metal. You may be asked to change into a gown if your clothing contains metal.
- Mammograms: No prep is usually needed but avoid wearing lotions or deodorant on the day of.
- X-rays: Depending on the area being X-rayed, you may be asked to change into a gown or remove metal objects like belts and jewelry.
What to expect during Your Visit
- Check in at the hospital front desk with your photo ID and insurance card.
- After check-in head to the radiology department.
- Once you arrive a member of our team will greet you and explain the next steps
- Exams take 15 to 60 minutes, depending on the type.
- You may be asked to change into a gown for certain scans.
- Results are usually sent to your provider within 48 business hours.
We do our best to keep you comfortable and informed during every step of your visit. If you have any questions, please call 308-337-4419.
Contact the Radiology Department
308-337-4419
877- 283-6417
radiology@gordonmemorial.org