Diagnostic vs Screening Ultrasound: What’s the Difference?
There is a clear and critical medical difference between a diagnostic ultrasound and a screening ultrasound. The primary distinction lies in why the scan is being performed: a diagnostic ultrasound is used to investigate specific, unexplained symptoms like pain or swelling, while a screening ultrasound is a preventive measure performed on patients who currently show […]
Can an ultrasound diagnose muscle or tendon injuries?
Yes, a specialized diagnostic method known as Musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasound can accurately diagnose muscle and tendon injuries. If you have suffered a sudden sports injury, a painful strain, or suspect a tissue tear, an urgent care provider can evaluate your injury in real-time, perform a targeted diagnostic scan, and establish an immediate treatment path during […]
What symptoms in pregnancy I should get an ultrasound?
Yes, an urgent ultrasound is highly necessary if you experience critical red-flag symptoms during pregnancy. If you are experiencing unexpected pain, spotting, or other sudden physical shifts, an urgent ultrasound allows healthcare providers to immediately assess your baby’s heart rate, evaluate the placenta, check amniotic fluid volumes, and rule out dangerous complications. However, an ultrasound […]
What Should I Bring to My Ultrasound Appointment?
For your ultrasound appointment, you should bring your medical provider’s order, a valid photo ID, your health insurance card, and a complete list of your current medications. It is also highly recommended to wear loose, comfortable, two-piece clothing and leave valuable items at home. Preparation steps depend heavily on the specific type of scan you […]
Can urgent care ultrasound detect blood clots in legs?
Yes, urgent care centers equipped with advanced vascular imaging can detect blood clots in the legs. If you are experiencing symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), a medical condition where a blood clot forms in a deep vein—an urgent care provider can perform a specialized non-invasive vascular test called a venous Doppler ultrasound to evaluate […]
Can I Get an Ultrasound During My Urgent Care Visit?
Yes, you can get an ultrasound during an urgent care visit, but availability depends entirely on the facility. While some advanced centers offer on-site imaging, many standard clinics only provide basic X-rays and will refer you to an external hospital or imaging network for a scan. At Sahara West Urgent Care, we provide comprehensive diagnostic […]
Can urgent care do a thyroid ultrasound for a neck lump?
Yes, urgent care centers equipped with advanced diagnostic imaging can perform a thyroid or soft-tissue neck ultrasound if you feel a lump or nodule in your neck. If you detect an unusual swelling, mass, or enlargement in your throat area, an urgent care provider can conduct an immediate physical exam and order an ultrasound to […]
How Long Does an Ultrasound Appointment Take?
An ultrasound appointment typically takes between 30 and 60 minutes from start to finish. The actual scanning process usually lasts only 15 to 45 minutes, depending on the complexity of the specific body area being evaluated and how easily the sonographer can capture clear images of the internal structures. However, your total time at a […]
Are There Additional Fees Besides the Ultrasound Cost?
Yes, ultrasound bills often include separate charges beyond the base cost of the scan. In traditional medical settings, patients frequently receive two distinct bills for a single procedure: a technical fee for the physical use of the equipment and a separate professional interpretation fee charged by the radiologist who reviews the images. However, unexpected medical […]
How should I prepare for a walk-in ultrasound?
Whether you need to fast for a walk-in ultrasound depends entirely on the specific part of your body being scanned. If you are receiving an abdominal ultrasound to examine your gallbladder, liver, kidneys, or pancreas, you typically must fast and avoid all food and drink (except small sips of water) for 8 to 12 hours […]