Frequently Asked Questions: Results
What are imaging results?
The value of imaging is incomplete until your referring physician receives a report describing your exam. This is a very important priority for an imaging center. Your physician can also gain access to the images and reports electronically. It is very important to provide your results promptly to your referring physician. This assures your efficient and timely care. Routine reports are usually delivered the same day or next day, and the radiologist will call your physician immediately if necessary.
How can I get a copy of my medical records?
Your physician will receive a copy of your exam report and will discuss the results with you. Your physician can provide you with a copy of your exam report. CMI will retain original exam films and reports. In any legal matters, your attorney may obtain copies of your medical records directly from CMI with your written authorization.
You may obtain a copy of your medical record by calling CMI Medical Records at (503) 216-0669.
In order for The Center for Medical Imaging to disclose protected health information (PHI) to any individual and/or entity outside of normal treatment, payment, or health-care operations as defined by federal guidelines, a signed HIPAA Authorization Release form must be received from the patient or legal guardian.
How can I send previous films and reports to a new doctor?
With your written authorization, film copies, including mammograms, will be sent to your new physician. Your new Physicians' office can do this for you with your written authorization. You may also pick up your films. You will need to fill out a release form at that time. You may have your films permanently transferred to another facility or to your own custody. In either case, you will need to sign a release authorization.
Will I know the results of my exam before I leave?
Generally not. Your results are forwarded to your physicians within 1 to 2 days. It is very important for your physician to compare our conclusions with his or her clinical findings in order to present you with a complete diagnosis.
Can my films go to more than one physician for review?
Absolutely. We respect the desire of patients to seek second opinions in their care. Simply call our Medical Records department with the name and address of the physician: (503) 216-0669.
May I get a copy of my films?
Yes. You will need to fill out a release form and pick up a copy of your films in person. We can not mail your films or report to you due to HIPAA regulations. Please contact CMI Medical Records for more details: (503) 216-0669.
How long does CMI keep my records on file?
We maintain the films and reports from your exam(s) in accordance with state laws (in most cases, for a minimum of five to seven years).
Under the Uniform Health Care Information Act, you may request in writing to see, copy, and/or correct your reports and films. Written parental consent is required for the release of non-pregnancy related information of a minor child. We will not disclose your records to others unless you direct us in writing to do so or unless the law authorizes or compels us to do so. Depending on the nature of the request, copy charges and a waiting period may be applicable
How will I get the results of my exam?
Your diagnostic imaging study or interventional procedure will be carefully reviewed by a board-certified radiologist (physician). A transcribed report will be forwarded to your health-care provider. Your health-care provider will discuss the results and your options with you. Significant findings are generally phoned to the referrer prior to transcription, so that treatment planning with the patient may begin as soon as possible. Some referring physicians request to see the films as part of their treatment planning with the patient. CMI provides film courier services as a courtesy to local referrers for this purpose.
In the circumstance of a special procedure, such as biopsy, radiologists work closely with your personal physician. Your results and treatment progress are reported directly to him or her.
It is important to consult with your health-care provider after any examination or procedure. These results will be compared with your overall health status, which only your physician or practitioner can assess for you.
A note about mammography results: In April 1999, it became law that ALL patients receiving mammograms be informed by letter of the results of their mammogram examination(s) in layperson's terms. This letter is based on a medical report, which is forwarded to your health-care provider. If you have already received communication from your health-care provider and/or responded to recommendations concerning this result, you should disregard the letter. If you have further questions concerning results and/recommendations, please contact your health-care provider.
How will I find out about my breast biopsy results?
Radiology and pathology reports will be provided to your physician within two to four working days of your procedure. Your physician will discuss your results and options with you. It is important to understand that the evaluation of the abnormality does not end with the biopsy. Clinical follow-up is essential for all patients. Depending on the results of the biopsy, other options may include follow-up mammography in six months, repeat core-needle breast biopsy, or surgical biopsy.
