Our services
X-Ray
At South Coast Radiology, we use advanced digital, low-dose X-ray technology to provide fast and accurate imaging, helping doctors diagnose and manage a wide range of conditions.
X-ray (radiography) is the most commonly used form of medical imaging. It’s quick, reliable, and essential for assessing bones, joints, lungs, and certain soft-tissue conditions.
X-ray services are available at most of our clinics, and many locations offer walk-in appointments for your convenience, simply bring a valid referral.
What is an X-ray?
An X-ray uses a small amount of ionising radiation to produce images of the body’s internal structures. Denser tissue, like bone, appears white, while softer tissue appears in shades of grey.
Modern digital detectors make the process fast, efficient, and are lower in radiation than ever before.
Why might I need an X-ray?
X-rays are often the first step in diagnostic imaging, guiding further scans if required.
Your doctor may refer you for an X-ray to:
- Confirm or rule out fractures or dislocations
- Diagnose arthritis, joint degeneration, or bone lesions
- Evaluate lung and chest conditions (e.g. pneumonia, fluid, nodules)
- Assess spine, pelvis, or skeletal alignment
- Check implant position or detect foreign bodies
Common Types of X-rays
At South Coast Radiology we offer a range of x-rays including:
About Your Test
Before your appointment
- No special preparation is required.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing without metal fasteners or zippers.
- Remove jewellery, watches, or metal objects near the area being scanned.
- Inform staff if you are or may be pregnant.
On the day
- All X-rays are performed by accredited radiographers, ensuring accuracy, safety, and patient comfort.
- A radiographer will position you and explain the procedure.
- You may be asked to stand, sit, or lie down depending on the area imaged.
- Some scans may require brief breath-holding to prevent motion blur.
- The imaging process is very quick — often under one minute per view.
- You’ll be in an open environment — no enclosed spaces or claustrophobia.
After your appointment
- You can drive and resume normal activities immediately.
- Images are reviewed by a specialist radiologist, and a report is sent directly to your referring doctor.
- You may request a digital copy or online access to your images via our secure patient portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most South Coast Radiology clinics offer walk-in X-ray services — simply bring your referral and attend during opening hours.
You’ll be positioned by a radiographer and asked to hold still briefly while images are taken. The process is painless and takes only a few minutes.
Including setup and positioning, most X-ray appointments take 15–30 minutes.
Yes. Modern digital X-ray equipment uses minimal radiation, and safety protocols ensure protection for you and staff.
Your doctor will typically receive your results within 24–48 hours, with urgent cases prioritised.
Yes. You can request access through our secure online patient portal or clinic reception.
Most X-rays are Medicare-rebatable when referred appropriately. Our team will advise you of any additional fees before your scan.
Safety
Our modern digital systems use very low radiation doses.
We follow strict Australian Radiation Safety Standards and use protective shielding where appropriate.
The diagnostic benefits of X-ray imaging far outweigh the minimal radiation risk.
Costs and Medicare Rebates
Fast and accurate
Book your low-dose digital X-ray imaging at South Coast Radiology.