Why choose us for X-rays?

BJC HealthCare works with Washington University physicians, BJC Medical Group, and providers across the region to deliver extraordinary care. Our commitment to outstanding care means you can count on us for prompt, accurate testing.
Radiologists, some with decades of experience and many who are leaders in the field, oversee your care. Technologists who carry out X-ray imaging are registered with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists®, the gold standard in certification.

Highlights of our program include:

Advanced technology: We use digital radiography. It produces clear digital images available to radiologists for review within seconds. This technology enables us to use the lowest necessary radiation dose for optimal safety. We store scans in our electronic medical record, making it easier for authorized providers to review results.
Coordination: Our specialists collaborate to help you receive the best possible care. If an X-ray shows signs of a medical issue, we quickly communicate the results to your referring provider. Radiologists are available to discuss findings whenever necessary to help tailor therapies to your needs.
Convenient walk-in services: X-ray imaging is available in some locations without an appointment if you have a physician referral. When there’s an urgent concern, such as a broken bone, services are also available at many BJC Convenient Care locations.
Specialized assessments: Our radiography teams work closely with speech therapists to perform swallowing assessments using real-time imaging guidance. This method leads to an accurate diagnosis that addresses the source of swallowing problems so that you receive appropriate therapies.

Convenient scheduling and connected care

BJC is a connected network of specialists offering advanced capabilities and a seamless patient experience. After receiving a physician referral, call (314) 362-9355 or (800) 392-0936 to schedule an appointment, and we’ll take care of the details.

Schedule an appointment.

What happens during an X-ray?

A special machine delivers a focused burst of radiation (a type of energy) to the area under evaluation. The energy passes through body tissue at various rates. It takes longer for radiation to pass through bones, which are made up of dense tissue. Radiation travels quickly through soft tissue, like your lungs, tongue, fat or muscle.

A plate on the other side of your body captures the energy as it leaves your body, creating an X-ray image. We may use dye (contrast) that makes images sharper so we can assess the fine details of a particular area.

Radiologists at BJC specialize in X-ray imaging of specific body areas, including the:

Chest
Digestive system
Genitourinary system
Musculoskeletal system

If I need an X-ray, what can I expect?

Radiography does not require much preparation and is available in locations throughout the St. Louis region. Unless it’s an urgent matter, it’s essential to have a physician referral.

Here is some additional information to help you prepare:

Documentation: Bring a photo ID (driver’s license or state ID), insurance card and list of medications with you.
Eating, drinking and taking medications: In most cases, you can eat, drink and take medications as usual before your scan.
Jewelry and metal objects: You may need to remove jewelry, glasses or metal objects (like clothing with zippers) that could interfere with the X-ray.
Pregnancy: Please let us know if you think you are pregnant. We take extra precautions to protect your baby against radiation exposure.
X-ray imaging with contrast: This scan requires preparation, like not smoking, drinking or eating after midnight the day before.
Results: A radiologist reads the scan and interprets the results. They share this information with your referring physician via electronic medical record.
Billing: You will receive two bills — one from the facility where you receive your scan and the other from the radiologist who reads the results. Check with your insurance for specific billing charges to expect.