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Our FAQ page answers common questions in four sections: Imaging Procedure and preparation, Scheduling, Payment and billing, and Medical Records.
Whether you need to prepare for a procedure, schedule an appointment, handle payments, or access your medical records, you’ll find answers here to make your experience with California Imaging & Diagnostics easy.
Did you know you have the right to choose where you receive your imaging services? If your doctor recommends imaging, ask them to refer you to California Imaging & Diagnostics — we’d love to be your trusted imaging provider.
The staff at California Imaging & Diagnostics is available to answer any questions you have about any exam or procedure.
Feel free to call us toll-free at 866-419-3372 with specific questions or review the frequently asked questions below.
Yes. California Imaging and Diagnostics holds full accreditation by the American College of Radiology (ACR), which is recognized as the gold standard in medical imaging. ACR accreditation means our facilities have undergone rigorous review to ensure we meet nationally-accepted standards for quality, safety, and image quality. All our equipment is regularly maintained and calibrated, and our team undergoes continuous training to maintain the highest standards of care and accuracy. This accreditation is your assurance that you’re receiving imaging at a facility that meets the most stringent professional standards in the country.
California Imaging and Diagnostics has been serving the Hemet and Murrieta communities for over 50 years. This long history demonstrates our commitment to the region and our expertise in diagnostic imaging. Our longevity is built on a foundation of precise diagnoses, innovative solutions, and patient-centered care. We’ve earned the trust of physicians and patients throughout Riverside County, and we continue to invest in state-of-the-art technology and staff training to deliver the best possible results.
Yes, we accept most major insurance plans. We work with numerous contracted insurance providers to make imaging services accessible and affordable for our patients. Before your appointment, we recommend verifying your coverage with your insurance company or contacting our office directly at (866) 419-3372. Our team can help you understand your coverage and answer any questions about pre-authorization requirements. You can also view our contracted insurance providers on our website to confirm your plan is accepted.
Yes. We offer a secure patient portal where you can access your imaging results, medical records, and appointment information from any device. Once your exam is complete and the radiologist has reviewed your images, you’ll be able to view your report online. The portal is HIPAA-compliant and ensures your medical information stays private and secure. You can also pay your bills online through our secure portal, making it easy to manage your healthcare from home.
California Imaging and Diagnostics provides a comprehensive range of imaging services including MRI scans, CT (computed tomography) scans, digital X-rays, ultrasound, mammography, nuclear medicine imaging, and PET scanning. We also offer specialized services like 3D tomosynthesis for breast imaging, DEXA bone density scans, fluoroscopy, and image-guided biopsies. Whether you need routine screening or complex diagnostic imaging, we have the technology and expertise to help your doctor make an informed diagnosis. All our services are available at our Hemet and Murrieta locations with state-of-the-art equipment and highly trained technicians.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) uses a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the soft tissues, organs, and structures inside your body. Unlike X-rays and CT scans, MRI does not use radiation, making it an excellent choice for imaging the brain, spinal cord, joints, and organs. During an MRI scan, you’ll lie still on a table that moves into a cylindrical machine. The machine creates a magnetic field that aligns atoms in your body, and radio waves cause these atoms to produce signals that are converted into detailed images. MRI is particularly effective for detecting soft tissue injuries, tumors, and other conditions that might not be visible on other imaging tests. The scan typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, and you’ll hear loud banging sounds during the procedure—this is completely normal and part of how the machine operates.
A CT (Computed Tomography) scan uses a series of X-ray images taken from many different angles to create detailed cross-sectional images of your body, allowing doctors to see internal structures in much greater detail than a standard X-ray. While a standard X-ray produces a two-dimensional flat image, a CT scan creates three-dimensional images that show bones, blood vessels, organs, and soft tissues with exceptional clarity. CT scans are faster than MRI scans, usually taking only a few minutes, and are particularly useful for detecting injuries, cancers, heart disease, and other conditions. Both tests use a small amount of radiation, but CT provides more comprehensive information about complex medical conditions, which is why your doctor may recommend a CT scan when a standard X-ray isn’t detailed enough.
Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the structures inside your body. Unlike X-rays and CT scans, ultrasound uses no radiation, making it especially safe for pregnant women and children. At California Imaging and Diagnostics, ultrasound is commonly used to examine organs like the liver, kidneys, and heart; to monitor fetal development during pregnancy; and to evaluate soft tissue injuries and joint conditions. Ultrasound is also used to guide biopsies and other minimally invasive procedures. The procedure is painless and typically takes 15 to 45 minutes, depending on what’s being examined. Our certified sonographers at our Hemet and Murrieta locations have extensive training in ultrasound techniques and are skilled at obtaining the detailed images your doctor needs.
A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray of the breast used to detect breast cancer and other breast conditions. Screening mammography is used for asymptomatic women, typically starting at age 40 or 50 depending on individual risk factors and guidelines from organizations like the American Cancer Society. Diagnostic mammography is performed when a woman has symptoms (like a lump or pain) or when a screening mammogram shows an abnormality. California Imaging and Diagnostics offers both screening and diagnostic mammography, and our dedicated breast center uses the latest technology including 3D tomosynthesis for enhanced cancer detection. Mammography is one of the most effective tools available for early detection of breast cancer, which can significantly improve treatment outcomes. Women should discuss breast cancer screening recommendations with their doctor.
California Imaging and Diagnostics performs image-guided biopsies, which means our radiologists use imaging technology to guide a needle precisely to the area of concern. We offer breast biopsies, as well as biopsies of other organs and tissues. Image guidance ensures accuracy and helps minimize discomfort. Our team includes experienced radiologists and technicians trained in biopsy procedures, and we perform all biopsies with patient comfort and safety as top priorities. We even have a dedicated mobile biopsy unit available for certain procedures. If your doctor recommends a biopsy, we’ll discuss the procedure with you in detail and answer any questions you have before your appointment.
3D Tomosynthesis (also called 3D mammography) is an advanced imaging technique that creates three-dimensional images of the breast, rather than the flat, two-dimensional images of standard mammography. This technology allows radiologists to see breast tissue layer by layer, making it easier to detect cancers and reduce false alarms from overlapping breast tissue. 3D tomosynthesis is particularly helpful for women with dense breast tissue, where cancers can be harder to spot on standard mammography. The procedure takes slightly longer than standard mammography but provides significantly more information. California Imaging and Diagnostics offers 3D tomosynthesis at our dedicated breast center in the Hemet and Murrieta locations, giving you access to one of the most advanced breast imaging technologies available.
California Imaging and Diagnostics serves patients throughout Riverside County, including Hemet, Murrieta, Menifee, and Sun City. Our main imaging centers are located in Hemet and Murrieta, making it convenient for patients across the region to access our services. Whether you live in Hemet, Murrieta, or nearby communities, you can reach us at (866) 419-3372 to schedule your appointment. Both locations feature full diagnostic imaging capabilities, experienced radiologists, and state-of-the-art equipment.
Yes. Our Hemet location is at 850 E. Latham Ave., Suite 101, Hemet, CA 92543. This facility is conveniently located near Hemet Hospital and features a full range of diagnostic imaging services, including MRI, CT scans, ultrasound, X-rays, mammography, and more. The Hemet center is known for its compassionate staff and clean, modern facilities. Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. You can reach our Hemet location at (866) 419-3372 or (951) 677-7839 to schedule an appointment or ask questions about our services.
Yes. Our Murrieta location is at 25470 Medical Center Dr., Suite 101, Murrieta, CA 92562. This state-of-the-art facility offers the complete range of diagnostic imaging services available at California Imaging and Diagnostics, including advanced MRI, CT, ultrasound, mammography with 3D tomosynthesis, and specialized imaging procedures. Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. To schedule an appointment or learn more about services at our Murrieta center, call (866) 419-3372 or (951) 677-7839.
Yes, a physician’s referral is required to schedule diagnostic imaging at California Imaging and Diagnostics. Ask your primary care doctor, specialist, or other healthcare provider to place a referral for your imaging exam. Once your doctor places the referral, contact us at (866) 419-3372 to schedule your appointment. Your doctor will let us know why the imaging is needed, which helps us prepare the right exam for you. If you don’t currently have a referring physician, speak with an urgent care center, walk-in clinic, or your insurance provider for guidance on how to connect with a doctor who can place the referral.
Scheduling is easy. You can schedule online or call us at (866) 419-3372. Have your doctor’s referral ready when you call or schedule online. When you schedule, let us know which imaging service you need, any preparation requirements, and your preferred location (Hemet or Murrieta) and time. We’ll confirm your appointment and send you detailed preparation instructions via email or text message. If you have questions about scheduling, our patient services team is happy to help at (866) 419-3372.
Preparation depends on the type of imaging exam you’re having. For some exams like X-rays, no special preparation is needed. For other exams like abdominal ultrasound or CT scans with contrast, you may need to fast (not eat) for a certain period before your appointment. You’ll receive detailed preparation instructions when you schedule your exam. It’s important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure the best image quality. If you have questions about how to prepare for your specific exam, contact us at (866) 419-3372, and our team will walk you through the preparation steps.
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing without metal fasteners, zippers, or underwear with metal components (such as hooks or wires). Metal can interfere with imaging, particularly MRI scans. Avoid wearing jewelry, watches, or hair clips. If you have extensive metal implants or medical devices, mention this when you schedule your appointment so we can ensure the safest imaging approach. You’ll be able to wear most clothing during your exam; our technicians will ask you to remove only items that could interfere with imaging. If you’re uncertain about what to wear, call us at (866) 419-3372, and we’ll provide specific guidance based on your exam type.
Fasting requirements depend on the type of imaging exam you’re having. Some exams, like chest X-rays, don’t require any fasting. Other exams, such as abdominal ultrasounds or CT scans with contrast, may require you to avoid food for 4 to 8 hours before your appointment. Water is usually allowed. Your preparation instructions will clearly state whether fasting is necessary for your specific exam. It’s important to follow fasting requirements exactly, as eating or drinking at the wrong time can affect image quality. If you accidentally eat or drink when you should have fasted, contact us immediately at (866) 419-3372 to discuss rescheduling your appointment to ensure accurate results.
Fasting is required for certain imaging exams because food and liquid in your stomach and intestines can create shadows on the images that interfere with accurate diagnosis. For abdominal ultrasounds, a full stomach can prevent clear visualization of organs like the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. For CT scans using contrast material (a special dye), eating beforehand can increase the risk of nausea or complications from the contrast. By fasting before your exam, you ensure that your organs are clearly visible and that the radiologist can provide the most accurate interpretation. This leads to faster, more reliable diagnoses and better care outcomes. Your preparation instructions will explain exactly what you need to do before your specific exam.
Yes, you’re welcome to bring a family member or friend for support. They can wait in the waiting room during your exam. However, due to radiation safety and privacy regulations, only you are permitted in the imaging examination room. Children under 12 years old should not be left unattended in the waiting area and are not permitted in the exam room. Service dogs are allowed throughout our facilities. If you have specific questions about bringing family members or have special needs, let us know when you schedule your appointment or call us at (866) 419-3372.
Appointment duration varies depending on the type of imaging exam. A simple X-ray may take just 10 to 15 minutes, while an MRI scan can take 30 to 60 minutes. CT scans typically take 10 to 30 minutes, and ultrasound exams usually take 15 to 45 minutes. Your preparation instructions will give you an estimated time for your specific exam. We recommend arriving 15 to 30 minutes early to complete paperwork, but please ask when you schedule your appointment. If you’re running late, call us right away at (866) 419-3372 so we can let you know if rescheduling is necessary.
Yes, imaging can be performed safely during pregnancy when medically necessary. However, the type of imaging used depends on the stage of pregnancy and the clinical situation. Ultrasound uses no radiation and is the preferred imaging method for pregnant women, particularly for monitoring fetal development. Other imaging methods may be considered depending on your doctor’s assessment. If you’re pregnant or think you might be, notify our staff when you schedule your appointment so we can discuss the safest imaging approach for you. Our experienced team at our Hemet and Murrieta locations will work with your doctor to ensure both you and your baby receive the best care possible.
Yes, imaging is safe for children when performed by trained professionals using appropriate techniques. Pediatric imaging uses the lowest possible radiation doses and the most effective techniques for each child’s age and size. California Imaging and Diagnostics has experience performing imaging on pediatric patients with compassion and expertise. For some exams, sedation may be recommended to help a child remain still for clear images. If your child needs imaging, speak with your doctor about the best approach, and let us know your child’s age when you schedule. Our team will discuss any special preparation your child may need.
We understand that MRI machines can feel confining for some people. Communicate your concerns about claustrophobia when you schedule your appointment. We can discuss options with you, including visualization techniques and relaxation strategies that help many patients get through standard MRI exams. In some cases, sedation may be an option to help you remain comfortable. Some facilities offer wide-bore or open MRI machines, which have more spacious designs. Discuss your specific anxiety or claustrophobia concerns with our staff at (866) 419-3372, and we’ll work with you to find the most comfortable solution for your imaging needs.
Most imaging exams don’t require sedation. However, sedation may be recommended or available in certain situations, such as for young children who have difficulty staying still, for adults with severe anxiety or claustrophobia, or for certain lengthy or complex procedures. If sedation is recommended for your exam, our team will discuss it with you beforehand, explain what to expect, and go over any preparation requirements. If you think you may need sedation, discuss this when you schedule your appointment at (866) 419-3372, and we can include it in your pre-exam planning.
Most metal items must be removed before imaging, particularly during MRI exams, as magnetic fields can affect metal and potentially cause injury. Remove jewelry, watches, hair clips, piercings, and other metal accessories before your exam. Inform our staff if you have any metal implants or medical devices (such as joint replacements, spinal rods, or pacemakers) when you schedule your appointment or when you arrive. Different metals behave differently in imaging environments, and our team will determine what’s safe for your specific exam. For certain metal implants, alternative imaging methods like CT scans or ultrasound may be recommended instead of MRI. Always inform your healthcare provider and our staff of any medical implants or metal in your body.
Certain metal implants, particularly pacemakers and some older medical devices, may not be compatible with MRI due to the powerful magnetic field. However, many newer pacemakers and implants are MRI-safe. If you have any metal implant or medical device, you must inform us before scheduling your exam. Bring documentation of your implant, including the manufacturer and model number if possible. Our radiologists will review your implant information and determine the safest imaging method for your situation. Alternative imaging like CT scans, X-rays, or ultrasound may be used instead of MRI. Never assume an implant is safe for MRI—always disclose all implants to our team to ensure your safety.
Radiation exposure varies depending on the type of imaging. X-rays, CT scans, and nuclear medicine exams use ionizing radiation. The radiation doses used in medical imaging are carefully controlled and considered safe when medically necessary. Ultrasound and MRI do not use ionizing radiation, making them excellent choices when appropriate for your diagnosis. Your doctor weighs the benefit of the diagnostic information gained against the small radiation risk when recommending imaging that uses radiation. Our team uses the principle of as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA) to minimize radiation exposure while obtaining high-quality diagnostic images. If you’re concerned about radiation exposure, discuss this with your referring physician or our team at (866) 419-3372.
In most cases, you’ll receive your imaging results within 24 to 48 hours after your exam. Our radiologists carefully review your images and prepare a detailed report that’s sent to your referring physician. Your doctor will then contact you to discuss the results and next steps. In some urgent situations, results may be available faster. You can also access your results through our secure patient portal once your physician has received and reviewed them. If you don’t hear from your doctor within two to three business days, contact your doctor’s office to follow up. Results are not given over the phone by our imaging center staff; your physician will discuss findings with you directly.
Your imaging results are sent directly to your referring physician. Your doctor will review the report and contact you to discuss the findings. You can also access your results through our secure patient portal once they’re available. If you prefer to pick up a copy of your images on a CD, you can visit either our Hemet or Murrieta location with your photo ID, or request images be mailed to you or sent electronically to another provider. This gives you multiple ways to access and share your imaging information based on what works best for you.
Yes. If you’d like your imaging results and images sent to more than one healthcare provider, let us know when you schedule your appointment or contact our office at (866) 419-3372. You can authorize us to send results to your primary care doctor, specialists, or any other healthcare provider involved in your care. We can send results electronically, on CD, or via mail, depending on the receiving provider’s preference. This ensures all your doctors have the information they need to coordinate your care.
Yes. You can access your imaging results and reports through our secure patient portal. Once your exam has been reviewed by the radiologist and your referring physician has received the report, the results will be available in your portal. You’ll receive a notification when your results are ready. The portal allows you to view reports, download images, and manage your account from any device with internet access. All portal information is encrypted and HIPAA-compliant, protecting your privacy. If you don’t have a patient portal account yet, you can set one up on our website, or ask our staff to help you sign up.
You can request copies of your imaging images at any time. You have several options: (1) Pick up a CD at either our Hemet or Murrieta location with your photo ID, (2) Request images be mailed to your home, or (3) Have images sent electronically to another healthcare provider. To request copies, call us at (866) 419-3372 or contact our medical records department. We’ll ask for your name, date of birth, and the date of your exam. Most requests are processed within 2 to 5 business days. There may be a small fee for copies, depending on the format you request.
We accept most major insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, and numerous private insurance carriers. The specific plans we accept may vary by location. To confirm that your insurance is accepted, call us at (866) 419-3372 before scheduling your appointment. You can also check our website to view our full list of contracted insurance providers. Having your insurance information ready when you schedule will help us verify your coverage and ensure there are no billing surprises.
Whether pre-authorization is required depends on your specific insurance plan and the type of imaging you need. It’s the responsibility of your referring physician’s office and your insurance company to obtain any necessary pre-authorization before your appointment. We recommend contacting your insurance company before your appointment to confirm whether your exam requires approval. The insurance information on the back of your insurance card will have the phone number to call. Our team can help coordinate with your insurance company if needed—just call us at (866) 419-3372. If authorization hasn’t been obtained before your appointment, we may contact you to reschedule.
We’re committed to providing imaging services at competitive, affordable rates. The cost of your imaging exam depends on the type of imaging, whether contrast material is used, and your insurance coverage. To get a specific cost estimate, call us at (866) 419-3372 with your insurance information. If you don’t have insurance, ask about our cash-pay pricing options, which are often very competitive. We also have financing options available to make imaging accessible. We recommend contacting your insurance company as well, as your out-of-pocket cost depends on your specific plan and deductible status.
While we do our best to accommodate urgent imaging requests, same-day appointments depend on current demand and scheduling availability at our Hemet and Murrieta locations. For non-urgent exams, scheduling within 5 to 10 business days is typical. If your doctor’s office indicates that your imaging is urgent, let us know when you call to schedule at (866) 419-3372, and we’ll work to get you in as quickly as possible. Call your physician’s office first to confirm the urgency level, and then contact us to explore available options.
Yes. California Imaging and Diagnostics offers 3D tomosynthesis at our dedicated breast center. This advanced imaging technology creates three-dimensional images of your breast, allowing our radiologists to see breast tissue layer by layer. This is particularly beneficial for women with dense breast tissue or for early detection of breast cancer. 3D tomosynthesis has been shown to improve cancer detection rates while reducing false alarms compared to standard mammography. Both our Hemet and Murrieta locations offer this technology as part of our comprehensive women’s imaging services. Ask your doctor about whether 3D tomosynthesis is right for your breast health screening.
Yes. We offer DEXA (Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry) scanning as part of our women’s imaging services. DEXA scans measure bone density and are used to screen for and monitor osteoporosis. The scan is quick, painless, and uses minimal radiation. It’s particularly important for postmenopausal women, those with a family history of osteoporosis, and anyone whose doctor recommends bone density screening. Results help your doctor assess fracture risk and determine whether treatment is needed to maintain bone health. Both our Hemet and Murrieta locations have DEXA technology available. Talk with your doctor about whether a bone density scan is appropriate for you.
Yes. California Imaging and Diagnostics offers nuclear medicine imaging services, including radioactive tracer studies and SPECT (Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography) scans. Nuclear medicine imaging is used to evaluate the function and activity of organs and tissues, making it valuable for diagnosing thyroid disorders, heart disease, bone problems, and certain cancers. During a nuclear medicine exam, a small amount of radioactive material is injected or ingested, and a special camera detects the radiation to create images. The radiation dose is very small and naturally leaves your body over time. If your doctor recommends nuclear medicine imaging, we’ll explain the procedure in detail and answer any questions you have. Call (866) 419-3372 to schedule or learn more about nuclear medicine services at our Hemet or Murrieta locations.