In some cases, your doctor can tell whether you’re healthy — or pinpoint the cause of your symptoms — by asking you questions or through an examination.
Other times, doctors need a more in-depth view. Laboratory tests and imaging tests offer a glimpse into your body’s inner workings. For instance, they can show whether a tendon or bone is damaged, or measure chemicals that tell how well your organs and systems are functioning.
Putting off these screenings may have consequences for your well-being. Diseases like cancer are often easier to treat if they’re detected early. And if you already have a health condition, such as diabetes, testing can help you prevent complications.
Of course, you might be wondering whether it’s the right time to undergo testing or how you can stay safe while doing so. Working with your physician — and understanding our new safety protocols — can ensure you get the care you need to manage existing health conditions and prevent new ones.
What Lab and Imaging Testing Involves
For lab tests, a health care provider might take a sample of your blood, urine, saliva or tissue. Imaging tests use a machine or other technique to produce a picture of your inner structures and systems. Types of imaging tests include:
- CT scans
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Ultrasound
- X-rays
In some cases, these tests involve putting part, or all, of your body into a machine at a health care facility. In others, a provider inserts a tube with a camera, called a scope, inside your body. With this method, physicians can peer inside organs like your lungs, heart or colon.
Getting the Full Picture of Your Health
Your physician can order a test to help:
- Diagnose or rule out a specific condition (like cancer, heart disease or infection)
- Monitor a condition you already have or check if your treatment is working
- Screen or check for health conditions before you even develop symptoms
- Track your health over time
How We’re Keeping You Safe
In most cases, for X-rays or other imaging tests, you’ll need to come into the office, hospital or clinic to undergo testing. When you go in for a test, you’ll notice some changes.
We’ve implemented new protocols to help keep you and your family — and the whole community — safe right now. They include:
- Temperature checks. Your temperature will be checked before you enter. Every person who comes into the building — including health care providers, staff, patients and visitors — will undergo screening for COVID-19 symptoms.
- Universal mask use. You’ll be provided with a mask if you’re not already wearing a cloth face covering. Employees and health care providers will also wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). We have plenty available for everyone.
- Social distancing made simple. At some facilities, you are able to check in online and wait in your car. Social distancing will be enforced in waiting rooms through the spacing of seats and barriers placed between patients and registration.
- Separate, safe care. Patients who don’t have COVID-19 or any symptoms will be seen and treated in a different area, away from those who do.
Your Health Care Team is Your Guide
If your physician orders a test, it’s because he or she think s it will be very beneficial for your current and future health.
If you have any questions about your safety or well-being, your health care team is here for you anytime. Don’t hesitate to call your physician’s office or contact us through the AdventHealth app to make the best plan for your care.
We’re Ready When You’re Ready
AdventHealth is committed to providing the latest information and care to support you and your family, today and always. When you’re ready to take charge of your whole health, lean on our lab and imaging services to deliver the safe, compassionate care you deserve.
