Frequently Asked Questions About Radiology

The body is a three dimensional structure, but an x-ray is only two dimensional. Thus, on a single x-ray, the different parts of the body are superimposed on one another or may overlap one another. By taking several x-rays in different positions, we can better visualize the bones and soft tissues to detect an abnormality.

A radiologist is a medical doctor specially trained to interpret x-rays. At Rhode Island Hospital, all of our radiologists are board certified by the American Board of Radiology. Sometimes your doctor will request to see your x-rays in addition to having the radiologist interpret them. In this case, you can take your films with you after they have been read by the radiologist.

Usually a written report from the radiologist is sufficient. Some doctors such as orthopedic surgeons and urologists do need to see the x-rays and will ask you to bring the films.

The technologists are not qualified to read your x-rays. When the technologist checks them, it is to make sure the quality is good enough for the radiologist to interpret them.

After the scan is finished, one of our board-certified radiologists will interpret the study and send a report to your doctor within a few days. Results will also be available on MyChart.