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Radiology

Radiology is the study of pictures of the human body. Radiology is the branch of medicine that uses radioactive substances, electromagnetic radiation, and sound waves to create images of the body, its organs, and structures for the purpose of diagnosis and treatment. Images can also show how effectively the body and its internal organs and structures are functioning.

We are committed to providing the highest quality diagnostic imaging services to providers and patients in central Illinois and surrounding areas, by using state-of-the-art technology and providing exceptional service. We provide a comprehensive range of imaging services at convenient locations to assist physicians in their diagnosis and treatment of patients.

Above all, our medical imaging team is centered on your individual healthcare needs. Our board certified radiologists, licensed technologists and professional support staff are dedicated to making you feel comfortable and confident about your imaging needs.

Services

The Radiology Department provides comprehensive outpatient diagnostic services. Imaging techniques available include state-of-the-art bone densitometry (DXA) scans, computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound, mammography and diagnostic and fluoroscopic radiography (X-rays). The majority of these services are digitally acquired, meaning they are interpreted by specialty trained physicians using computer workstations with high resolution monitors. The workstations allow the interpreting physician the ability to manipulate the images and provide a better diagnosis by magnifying areas of interest, electronically measuring structures, and changing the density and contrast without repeating the exam.

The digitally acquired images and reports are electronically stored and can be viewed at any time by any physician with access to the Springfield Clinic’s network. Digital images can also be sent electronically to both hospitals in Springfield, if needed for comparison or treatment. They can also be burned to CD’s or printed to film. Reports are sent electronically to the patient’s electronic health record when exams are ordered by Springfield Clinic physicians. They are sent by mail to physicians who are not members of the Springfield Clinic, and a copy of the report is also stored electronically with the exam.

MRI uses a powerful magnetic field, radio frequency pulses and a computer to produce detailed cross-sectional images of internal organs, soft tissues, musculoskeletal structures, the spinal canal, blood vessels, and virtually all other internal body structures. These images are reviewed on a computer to determine a diagnosis. MRI does not use radiation.

Ultrasound (or sonography) uses high-frequency sound waves to produce pictures of the inside of the body. Since ultrasound images are captured in real-time, they can show the structure and movement of the body’s internal organs, as well as blood flowing through blood vessels. Ultrasound imaging is a medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. The images are reviewed on a computer to determine a diagnosis. Ultrasound does not use radiation.

Radiology at Springfield Clinic
Breast MRI
Many of our services are accredited by the following agencies:
  • American College of Radiology
  • Mammography Quality Standards Act
  • Food and Drug Administration
  • American Registry of Radiologic Technologists
  • Illinois Emergency Management Agency's Department of Nuclear Safety
  • American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine.
  • Intersocietal Commission for the Accreditation of Vascular Laboratories
All radiation producing equipment is inspected by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency's Department of Nuclear Safety and meets all compliance criteria.