Preparing for Your Mobile Imaging Appointment

At Modia Health, we bring professional ultrasound and x-ray services directly to your location across Greater Brisbane and surrounding regions. Proper preparation ensures the best possible image quality and a smooth, comfortable experience. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

Healthcare professional preparing mobile medical equipment

Before Your Appointment

Blank referral paperwork, appointment calendar and preparation items on a desk

What You'll Need

Valid Referral

A current referral from your GP, medical practitioner, or participating nurse practitioner. All referrals in Australia are valid for 12 months from your consultation date.

Loose, comfortable clothing

For a comfortable imaging experience, loose clothing will help the technician access the site to be imaged.

Medical History

Information about any relevant medical conditions, current medications, and previous imaging results if available.

Comfortable Space

A quiet, private area with sufficient space for our mobile equipment and any mobility aids you may need.

Appointment Confirmation

Our team will contact you to confirm the date and estimated time of arrival, as well as any last-minute instructions.

Ultrasound Examination Preparation

Modern ultrasound imaging equipment

Preparation requirements vary depending on the type of ultrasound examination. Follow the specific instructions for your scan type:

Abdominal Ultrasound

Fasting Required

  • Fast for 6 hours before your examination (No food is preferred during this time. Liquids such as water, black tea/coffee and medications are allowed)
  • This reduces gas in the abdomen and allows the gallbladder to distend for better image quality
  • If you're diabetic, you may have a 4 hour fast instead.

Pelvic Ultrasound

Full Bladder Required

  • Empty your bladder 1.5-2 hours before your appointment
  • Drink 600ml-1 litre of water, finishing 1 hour before your scan
  • Do not empty your bladder until after the examination
  • A full bladder is essential for optimal imaging of pelvic organs
Note for Pregnancy Scans: If you're under 12 weeks pregnant, a full bladder is required. Over 12 weeks, no special preparation is typically needed.

Leg Arteries Ultrasound

Preparation Steps

  • See fasting instructions listed above

Other Ultrasound Types

No Preparation Required

The following ultrasound examinations require minimal or no special preparation:

  • Breast ultrasound – No preparation needed
  • Thyroid ultrasound – No preparation needed
  • Musculoskeletal ultrasound – No preparation needed
  • Vascular Doppler studies – No preparation needed
  • Soft tissue and lumps – No preparation needed

Simply wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that provides easy access to the examination area.

X-Ray Examination Preparation

Modern portable x-ray equipment

Our state-of-the-art mobile x-ray equipment delivers minimal radiation doses while providing high-quality diagnostic images

X-ray examinations require minimal preparation, making them quick and convenient.

General X-Ray Preparation

No Fasting Required

Unlike ultrasound examinations, x-rays do not require fasting or dietary restrictions. You can eat and drink normally before your appointment.

What to Do

  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing without metal fasteners if possible
  • Remove all metal objects from the examination area, including:
Jewelry (necklaces, earrings, bracelets)
Keys, clips, and coins
Mobile phones
Belts with metal buckles
Bras with metal components
Eyeglasses and hearing aids

Metal objects can interfere with x-ray images and may need to be removed to ensure clear, diagnostic quality images.

Chest X-Rays

  • Remove upper body clothing and jewelry
  • Be prepared to hold your breath when instructed
  • Sitting upright improves image quality when possible
  • Relax shoulders and place hands on hips if able

Post-Fall X-Rays

If you've experienced a fall, our mobile radiographers work to:

  • Minimize movement to prevent further injury
  • Position you safely and comfortably
  • Use your existing furniture or equipment (adjustable beds, lifters)
  • Provide positioning support with pillows or cushions

Your comfort and safety are our top priorities. We adapt to your situation and needs.

Preparing Your Home or Facility

Space Requirements

Designate a quiet, private area with sufficient space for:

  • Mobile imaging equipment (approximately 127-138cm x 60-67cm footprint)
  • Patient examination surface (bed, chair, or table)
  • Mobility aids (wheelchair, walker, etc.)
  • Our imaging technician to move comfortably

Clear Pathways

Ensure safe, unobstructed access:

  • Clear path from entry point to examination room
  • Remove clutter, obstacles, and trip hazards
  • For multi-story locations, ensure elevator access
  • Inform us in advance of any access considerations

Privacy & Comfort

Create an optimal examination environment:

  • Inform family members or facility staff of appointment timing
  • Minimize interruptions during the examination
  • Family members or caregivers can be present for support
  • A quiet environment helps ensure clear communication

Examination Surface

Prepare a stable, comfortable surface:

  • A bed, examination table, or sturdy chair
  • Ensure the surface is stable and appropriately positioned
  • Have pillows or cushions available for positioning support
  • For x-rays, an adjustable bed can be helpful

Clothing & Personal Items

Recommended Clothing

  • Loose-fitting, comfortable clothing that provides easy access to the examination area
  • Two-piece outfits (separate upper and lower garments) are ideal for abdominal or pelvic examinations
  • Avoid metal fasteners such as zippers, buttons, or hooks in the examination area
  • Easy to remove if necessary for optimal imaging

Items to Have Ready (for in-home scans)

Referral & Medicare Card

Your current referral and Medicare card for billing

Medication List

Current medications and any known allergies

Previous Reports

Any previous imaging reports if available

Support Person

Family member or caregiver if desired

Safety & Important Information

Clean mobile imaging equipment with gloves, wipes and safety supplies

Your safety and comfort are our highest priorities during every mobile imaging procedure

Pregnancy Notification

If you know or suspect you may be pregnant, please inform our team before your x-ray examination. X-rays may be harmful to an unborn child, particularly during the first trimester. We can often use alternative imaging methods such as ultrasound, or postpone the examination if appropriate.

Radiation Safety

Your safety is our priority. Our mobile x-ray procedures include:

  • Lead shielding to protect sensitive body parts not being examined
  • Modern equipment delivering minimal radiation doses
  • Qualified radiographers following strict safety protocols
  • Only essential personnel remain in the room during exposure
  • Family members or caregivers step outside or behind protective barriers

Infection Control

We maintain the highest standards of infection control:

  • All equipment is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected between patients
  • Ultrasound transducers undergo strict cleaning protocols
  • Single-use sterile gel sachets for appropriate examinations
  • Hand hygiene and personal protective equipment protocols
  • Hospital-grade disinfectants for all surfaces

Informed Consent

Before your examination, we'll explain:

  • The imaging procedure being performed
  • Relevant benefits and what to expect
  • Your opportunity to ask questions
  • Your right to consent or decline

For patients with cognitive impairment, consent may be obtained from a substitute decision-maker such as a family member or legal guardian.

What to Expect During Your Appointment

Modia Health mobile ultrasound equipment set up in an aged care room
1

Arrival & Setup

Our qualified imaging technician arrives at your scheduled time with portable equipment. We'll introduce ourselves, confirm your identity, and set up our equipment in the designated area.

Setup takes just a few minutes

2

Procedure Explanation

We'll explain the procedure, answer any questions you may have, and ensure you're comfortable. You'll have the opportunity to discuss any concerns before we begin.

Takes 2-3 minutes

3

The Examination

X-Ray Procedure

  • Positioned appropriately (standing, sitting, or lying)
  • Lead shielding applied to sensitive areas
  • Asked to hold still and hold breath if required
  • Multiple images may be taken from different angles
  • Actual exposure time: less than 1 second

Total time: 5-15 minutes

Ultrasound Procedure

  • Positioned comfortably on bed, chair, or exam table
  • Warm gel applied to skin over examination area
  • Transducer moved over the area to capture images
  • May be asked to change position or hold breath
  • Gel wiped away after completion

Total time: 20-45 minutes

4

Completion & Next Steps

After the examination:

  • You can resume normal activities immediately
  • No adverse effects or recovery time required
  • Images are securely transmitted to a radiologist for interpretation
  • Reports typically available within 24-48 hours
  • Urgent reports can be prioritized

Results & Follow-Up

Secure imaging report follow-up workspace with laptop and documents

Report Delivery

Your imaging results are handled with care and confidentiality:

  • Secure Transmission: Images transmitted via secure network to radiologist
  • Professional Interpretation: Detailed report prepared by qualified radiologist
  • Direct to Your Doctor: Report sent to your referring doctor's practice software
  • Aged Care Facilities: Reports also sent to facility records
  • Standard Turnaround: 24-48 hours for routine examinations

Accessing Your Results

You can access your imaging results through:

  • Follow-Up Appointment: Discuss results with your referring doctor (recommended)