Reducing No-Shows: The Importance of Timely Patient Attendance for Imaging Exams

September 17, 2024

At Precise Imaging, we recognize the challenges that arise when patients miss their scheduled imaging appointments. No-shows not only disrupt clinical workflows but can also delay critical diagnoses and treatment plans essential for patient recovery.





The Impact of No-Shows on Patient Care






  • Delayed Diagnoses: Missing imaging exams can postpone the identification of medical conditions, potentially leading to disease progression.




  • Treatment Delays: Timely imaging is crucial for initiating appropriate interventions. No-shows can extend the time before a patient receives necessary care.




  • Resource Wastage: Unattended appointments result in underutilized equipment and staff, increasing operational costs and reducing efficiency.





Why Timely Attendance Matters






  • Enhanced Patient Outcomes: Prompt imaging allows for earlier detection and management of health issues, improving prognosis.




  • Optimized Workflow: Consistent attendance helps maintain scheduling efficiency, benefiting both patients and healthcare providers.




  • Legal and Documentation Accuracy: Timely imaging provides up-to-date information essential for accurate medical records and any necessary legal documentation.





Strategies to Minimize No-Shows






  1. Patient Education:

    • Emphasize the significance of imaging in their treatment plan.




    • Inform patients about the potential consequences of delayed exams.






  2. Appointment Reminders:

    • Utilize automated calls, texts, or emails to remind patients of upcoming appointments.




    • Offer options for patients to confirm or reschedule with ease.






  3. Flexible Scheduling:

    • Provide a variety of appointment times to accommodate different schedules, including evenings and weekends.




    • Allow for same-day appointments when possible.






  4. Streamlined Communication:

    • Ensure patients have clear instructions regarding their appointment details.




    • Provide multilingual support to overcome language barriers.







How Precise Imaging Supports You






  • Multiple Locations: Conveniently situated centers to reduce patient travel time.




  • Advanced Technology: State-of-the-art equipment for quick and accurate results.




  • Dedicated Staff: Our team is committed to assisting patients throughout the imaging process.





Join Us in Enhancing Patient Care





By collaborating to reduce no-shows, we can ensure patients receive the timely care they need. Your role in encouraging patients to attend their imaging appointments is vital.


Precise Imaging Enhances Patient Experience with New Mandarin and Cantonese-Speaking Appointment Schedulers

September 3, 2024

— Precise Imaging, a leading provider of diagnostic imaging services, is excited to announce the addition of Mandarin and Cantonese-speaking appointment schedulers to our team. This enhancement underscores our commitment to providing accessible, patient-centered care to the diverse communities we serve.





Precise Imaging recognizes a significant portion of the population speaks Mandarin and Cantonese. By offering scheduling services in these languages, we aim to remove barriers to healthcare access and ensure that our patients can comfortably and confidently arrange their diagnostic imaging appointments.





"We recognize the importance of clear communication in healthcare," said Danny Rackow, IT director of Precise Imaging. "By providing scheduling services in Mandarin and Cantonese, we are taking a significant step towards making our services more inclusive and accessible to all members of our community."





The new language services are available immediately and can be accessed by calling our dedicated appointment line. Our bilingual schedulers are trained to assist with all aspects of the appointment process, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience for our patients.





About Precise Imaging





Precise Imaging is a premier provider of diagnostic imaging services, offering a full range of imaging modalities, including MRI, CT, X-ray, and ultrasound. With multiple locations across California, we are committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care. Our team of experienced radiologists and technologists is dedicated to providing accurate and timely results, ensuring the best possible outcomes for our patients.





For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit www.PreciseMRI.com


Understanding MRI: A Powerful Tool for Accurate Diagnosis

August 16, 2024

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a revolutionary imaging technology that has transformed the medical field. Utilizing powerful magnetic fields and radio waves, MRI provides detailed images of the inside of the body, aiding in the accurate diagnosis and treatment of various medical conditions. This article explores the benefits of MRI, its key advantages, and why it is a vital tool in modern medicine.





What is MRI?





MRI, or Magnetic Resonance Imaging, is a non-invasive imaging technique that produces high-resolution images of organs, tissues, and structures within the body. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, MRI does not use ionizing radiation. Instead, it employs a strong magnetic field and radiofrequency pulses to generate detailed cross-sectional images. These images help healthcare professionals diagnose and monitor a wide range of medical conditions.





Benefits of MRI






  1. Detailed Imaging: MRI provides exceptional detail, allowing doctors to visualize the internal structures with remarkable clarity. This is particularly valuable for imaging soft tissues such as the brain, spinal cord, muscles, and ligaments, which may not be as visible with other imaging techniques.




  2. Early Detection of Diseases: One of the significant advantages of MRI is its ability to detect diseases at an early stage. For example, MRI is crucial in identifying early signs of neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis or brain tumors, enabling timely intervention and treatment.




  3. Non-Invasive Procedure: MRI is a non-invasive imaging method, meaning it does not require any surgical procedures or injections for imaging. Patients simply lie on a table that slides into the MRI machine, making the procedure comfortable and stress-free.




  4. No Radiation Exposure: Unlike X-rays and CT scans that involve exposure to ionizing radiation, MRI does not use radiation. This makes MRI a safer option for patients who require multiple scans over time, such as those with chronic conditions or those undergoing routine monitoring.




  5. Versatile Applications: MRI is highly versatile and can be used to examine various parts of the body. It is particularly effective in diagnosing and monitoring conditions related to the brain, spinal cord, joints, and internal organs. MRI is also beneficial for evaluating injuries in athletes and assessing the extent of damage in trauma cases.




  6. Guidance for Treatment: MRI not only aids in diagnosis but also plays a crucial role in guiding treatment decisions. For instance, it helps surgeons plan and execute precise operations by providing detailed images of the surgical site, leading to better outcomes and reduced risk of complications.




  7. Functional Imaging: Advanced MRI techniques, such as functional MRI (fMRI), allow doctors to study brain activity and understand how different regions of the brain are working. This is particularly useful in research and in planning surgeries for conditions such as epilepsy or brain tumors.





Conclusion





MRI is a cornerstone of modern medical imaging, offering numerous benefits that enhance patient care and treatment outcomes. Its ability to provide detailed, high-resolution images without the use of radiation makes it a valuable tool in diagnosing and monitoring a wide range of medical conditions. Whether for early disease detection, treatment planning, or injury assessment, MRI continues to be an indispensable resource in the quest for accurate and effective healthcare.





By understanding the advantages of MRI, patients and healthcare providers can make informed decisions about its use, ensuring the best possible outcomes in medical diagnosis and treatment.


Precise Imaging Unveils Revolutionary Attorney Portal Through RadFlow 360, Streamlining Legal and Medical Collaboration

February 15, 2024

Precise Imaging Unveils Revolutionary Attorney Portal Through RadFlow 360, Streamlining Legal and Medical Collaboration


Agoura Hills, CA – Precise Imaging, a leader in the medical imaging sector, is thrilled to announce the launch of an innovative new feature within its RadFlow 360 software: the Attorney Portal. This cutting-edge portal is designed to significantly streamline the workflow between legal professionals and medical imaging services, marking a significant leap forward in the integration of healthcare and legal support services.

The Attorney Portal by Precise Imaging is a comprehensive online platform that promises to transform the way attorneys manage their medical imaging needs. With an array of features tailored to enhance efficiency, reduce administrative burdens, and save time and money, the portal is set to become an indispensable tool for legal professionals nationwide.


Key Features and Benefits of the Attorney Portal:



  • Centralized Access: Attorneys can now access all patient/client studies and documents from a single, easy-to-navigate web page, eliminating the need for multiple requests and communications.

  • Effortless Uploading: The portal allows for the direct upload of new orders, streamlining the process of initiating new cases or requests.

  • Case Management Simplified: Assigning a case manager has never been easier, ensuring that each case is handled efficiently and effectively.

  • Bulk E-Signature Capability: The portal offers the ability to e-sign pending liens either one by one or in bulk, significantly reducing paperwork and processing time.

  • Financial Transparency: Users can view current patient bill balances at a glance, aiding in financial planning and management.

  • Real-Time Updates: The portal provides ongoing case updates, keeping all parties informed of progress without the need for constant direct communication.

  • Negotiation and Payment: Attorneys can negotiate bills, submit offers, and make payments via credit card or ACH directly through the portal.

  • Customizable Notifications: Users can manage their notification preferences, ensuring they receive important updates in the most convenient way.



Accessing the Attorney Portal:


The Attorney Portal is accessible at Precise.RadFlow360.com. Legal professionals who do not yet have an account can easily request a login by clicking the “Request a login” button on the site. The portal is now live, inviting attorneys to sign up and experience the myriad benefits it offers.

Looking Ahead:


In a commitment to continuous improvement and innovation, Precise Imaging has also announced a sneak peek into future enhancements. By Q2 2024, the Attorney Portal will feature the ability to view and share images directly within RadFlow 360, further enhancing the utility and versatility of the platform.

Transition from Faxing:


In line with modernizing its communication and data transfer methods, Precise Imaging will discontinue faxing services from May 1st. All notifications will thereafter be communicated via email or can be accessed anytime via the Attorney Portal, ensuring a seamless and efficient flow of information.

About Precise Imaging:


Precise Imaging stands at the forefront of the medical imaging industry, offering state-of-the-art diagnostic services that blend technological innovation with exceptional patient care. With the introduction of the Attorney Portal in RadFlow 360, Precise Imaging reaffirms its commitment to bridging the gap between medical services and legal professionals, facilitating a more integrated, efficient approach to patient and client management.

Precise Imaging Launches Innovative ‘Call Timing’ and ‘Call Me’ Feature for Enhanced Customer Convenience

January 30, 2024

Agoura Hills, CA – 01/30/2024 – Precise Imaging, a leader in diagnostic imaging services, is proud to announce the launch of a revolutionary new feature on its website: "When to Call" & "Call Me". This innovative service is designed to significantly enhance the convenience for patients, referring physicians, and attorneys who use Precise Imaging's services.





The new "When to Call" feature on the Precise Imaging website addresses a common challenge in healthcare communication: finding the best time to call for information or assistance. Recognizing this issue, Precise Imaging has developed a dual-component solution to streamline communication and improve user experience.





You can use the released feature by visiting this link: https://www.precisemri.com/when-to-call





Key Features of "When to Call":






  1. Best Time to Call Indicator: This aspect of the service informs users of the most optimal times to call Precise Imaging, reducing wait times and ensuring more efficient communication. By guiding users to contact at less busy hours, the feature promises a more seamless and satisfying interaction with Precise Imaging’s dedicated customer service team.




  2. Call Me Option: Understanding that time is precious, Precise Imaging offers a 'Call Me' option. With this, users can simply request a call back from the service team. This means they no longer need to spend time waiting on the line. Instead, Precise Imaging will call them back as soon as they are first in line, ensuring no unnecessary waiting and a more personalized service experience.





A Commitment to Customer Satisfaction:





"At Precise Imaging, we are constantly seeking ways to enhance our service and ensure our clients have the best possible experience," said Danny Rackow, IT Director, of Precise Imaging. "The 'Call Me' feature is a testament to our commitment to customer convenience and satisfaction. We understand the value of our clients' time and are dedicated to making our services as accessible and user-friendly as possible."





This latest feature is part of Precise Imaging's ongoing effort to leverage technology for improved customer service in the healthcare sector. With a focus on innovation and client satisfaction, Precise Imaging continues to set the standard for excellence in diagnostic imaging services.





About Precise Imaging:





Precise Imaging is a leading provider of diagnostic imaging services, with a network of facilities across the United States. Known for its state-of-the-art equipment, highly trained staff, and commitment to quality patient care, Precise Imaging is at the forefront of the medical imaging industry.


Exciting News: Introducing Our New Patient Portal from RadFlow 360!

November 1, 2023





We are thrilled to announce the latest enhancement to our patient care services – the introduction of a new Patient Portal, powered by RadFlow 360. At Precise Imaging, we continually strive to improve our patient experience, and this new feature is a giant leap forward in that direction.









Why a Patient Portal?





In today's fast-paced world, we understand the importance of convenience and efficiency, especially when it comes to your health. The new Patient Portal from RadFlow 360 is designed to put the control back in your hands, allowing you to manage your appointments, view your images, and communicate with our team at the click of a button.





Key Benefits of the Patient Portal:





1. Complete Forms Ahead of Time:





Say goodbye to the hassle of filling out paperwork in the waiting room! With our Patient Portal, you can complete all necessary forms from the comfort of your home before your appointment.





2. Access Appointment Details:





Stay in the know with access to your appointment times, location, and easy-to-follow directions right from the portal.





3. View Your Images:





Your MRI, X-ray, and CT images are available for you to view on the portal as soon as they are ready.





4. Share Your Images:





Need a second opinion or share with a family member? You can easily share your images with other medical professionals or loved ones directly from the portal.





5. Upload Your Photo ID:





Ensure a smooth check-in process by uploading your Photo ID ahead of time.





6. Text Message with Our Scheduling Team:





Have a question about your appointment? Want to reschedule? Communicate with our scheduling team directly through text messages via the Patient Portal.









How to Get Started:





Getting started is easy! Simply visit www.precise.radflow360.com/patient-portal to access your account.













At Precise Imaging, we are committed to providing top-notch radiology services with a focus on patient convenience and care. The introduction of the Patient Portal from RadFlow 360 is a testament to this commitment. We are confident that this new feature will enhance your experience with us and we are excited for you to try it out.





For any questions or assistance with the Patient Portal, please do not hesitate to contact our support team.





Warm regards,





The Precise Imaging Team


Precise Imaging Expands with a New Radiology Center in Fresno, CA

October 24, 2023

The new center on West Shaw Lane features an Open MRI and X-Ray services, providing the community with enhanced diagnostic capabilities.





FRESNO, CA – Precise Imaging, a leading provider of diagnostic imaging services, is thrilled to announce the opening of its new radiology imaging center located at 2540 W. Shaw Lane, Suite 112-A, Fresno, CA 93711. The latest addition to the Precise Imaging network is now ready to serve the Fresno community and the surrounding areas, offering an Open MRI and X-Ray services.





With a continuous commitment to providing high-quality, accessible imaging services, Precise Imaging has invested in cutting-edge technology at its new Fresno center to ensure accurate and timely diagnoses. The Open MRI service aims to deliver a comfortable and less claustrophobic experience for patients, while the advanced X-Ray services ensure precise imaging for a variety of medical needs.





The Fresno location not only expands Precise Imaging’s geographical footprint but also reinforces its mission to offer patient-centric, technologically advanced imaging services to a broader spectrum of patients. This expansion underscores Precise Imaging's dedication to community healthcare and its endeavor to be at the forefront of diagnostic imaging services.





"We are elated to extend our services to the Fresno community," said Mike Rashidi, VP of Precise Imaging. "Our new center is equipped with an Open MRI and XRAY services to ensure precise and quick results. With a team of experienced radiologists and technologists, we are here to provide compassionate care and superior imaging services to all our patients."





The center is open M-F 8am-7pm and adheres to rigorous safety and sanitation protocols to ensure a safe environment for both patients and staff.





For more information about Precise Imaging and the new Fresno radiology imaging center, or to schedule an appointment, individuals can or call 800-558-2223





About Precise Imaging:





Precise Imaging offers a comprehensive range of diagnostic imaging services with a network of easily accessible imaging centers. With a focus on providing high-quality imaging and outstanding patient care, Precise Imaging is dedicated to meeting the diverse needs of patients, medical professionals, and healthcare organizations.


The Power of MRI Exams in Personal Injury Lawsuits

July 5, 2023

The health and wellbeing of individuals are often vulnerable to mishaps and accidents that can cause personal injuries. Such injuries could result in a legal dispute where the injured person, known as the plaintiff, seeks compensation for damages from the person or entity they believe caused their injury. In these instances, a comprehensive understanding of the injury's extent is paramount, often heavily relying on medical records and procedures. One such crucial diagnostic tool is the Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) examination. This article delves into how MRI exams can provide substantial assistance in personal injury lawsuits.





MRI is a non-invasive imaging technique that employs a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to generate detailed images of the inside of a body, typically focusing on soft tissues and organs. Unlike other imaging techniques like X-ray and CT scans, which primarily concentrate on skeletal injuries, MRI scans provide a comprehensive view of non-bony structures, like muscles, ligaments, tendons, and even the brain. This ability to visualize soft tissues makes MRI a valuable tool in evaluating the full extent of an injury.





In the context of personal injury lawsuits, MRI scans serve multiple critical roles. Primarily, it provides an objective basis for the plaintiff's claims of injury. Subjective symptoms like pain, discomfort, or restricted mobility may not convince a jury. However, visual evidence of damage, such as a torn ligament or herniated disc, becomes a tangible piece of evidence supporting the plaintiff's claims. By demonstrating the injury's existence and severity, MRI results can counter any argument that the plaintiff is exaggerating or feigning their condition.





Secondly, MRI results can contribute to determining the prognosis of an injury. The extent of damage revealed in the scan can help predict the duration of recovery, potential complications, and the possibility of permanent disability. This information is crucial in estimating the future medical costs, loss of earnings, and even non-economic damages like pain and suffering, which the plaintiff may include in their claim for compensation.





Furthermore, the timing of an MRI can also be a strategic element in a personal injury case. Early MRI exams might not reveal certain types of injuries like soft tissue damage, as these can take time to manifest. An MRI performed too soon could lead to an underestimation of the injury's extent, possibly harming the plaintiff's case. On the other hand, an MRI conducted too late might give the defendant an opportunity to argue that the injury was caused by something other than the initial incident. Hence, the timing of MRI is a critical factor in personal injury cases.









Finally, it's important to note that MRI results need to be interpreted and presented by a medical expert. Precise Imaging has several board certified radiologist that will review the images taken by the technologist and provide a report with their finding.





In conclusion, MRI examinations can be a powerful tool in personal injury lawsuits, aiding in confirming the existence and severity of an injury, predicting its prognosis, justifying medical expenses, and providing compelling evidence for the jury. However, these benefits are maximized when the timing of the MRI and interpretation of its results are strategically managed. It's crucial for individuals in these situations to consult with both medical and legal professionals to ensure the most effective use of MRI examinations in their case.


Precise Imaging Patient Portal is now live

January 23, 2023

Precise Imaging is excited to announce the launch of our new patient portal, a cutting-edge platform that streamlines the process of managing appointments and preparing for exams. With this new portal, patients can access their upcoming appointment times, view facility information, prefill out screening questions, and sign necessary paperwork, all in one convenient location.





Our patient portal is designed to save patients valuable time and make their appointments go quicker. By allowing patients to manage their appointments and complete necessary paperwork online, we are able to reduce the amount of time they spend in the waiting room and on administrative tasks. This means patients can spend more time focusing on their health and well-being.





In addition to saving time, our patient portal also offers patients the convenience of being able to access their appointment information and complete necessary paperwork from the comfort of their own home. This is especially useful for patients who have mobility issues or for those who are unable to visit our facility in person.





We understand that managing appointments and preparing for exams can be a stressful experience. That's why we've developed this patient portal to make the process as smooth and convenient as possible. This new feature will allow patients to spend less time worrying about administrative tasks and more time focusing on their health and well-being.





We invite all of our patients to take advantage of this new feature. To access the patient portal, simply visit our website and click on the patient portal button. If you have any questions or need assistance, please don't hesitate to contact us.





At Precise Imaging, we are committed to providing the highest quality of care for our patients, and this new patient portal is just one of the many ways we are working to improve the patient experience.









Thank you for choosing Precise Imaging.


mri brain research

Diagnosing Traumatic Brain Injury: CT Scans and MRI Tests

January 21, 2019






Researchers suspect that the true rate of mild traumatic brain injuries remains much higher than reported, suggesting the need for broader awareness of the condition. Diagnosis through imaging studies can help.





Neuroradiologists possess powerful tools for revealing the presence of traumatic brain injury (TBI): the CT scan and the MRI scan. Not every patient with suspected TBI requires imaging studies, but for those who do, these two techniques can greatly improve outcomes through prompt diagnosis.





Each of these diagnostic techniques carries its own strengths and hazards, and physicians order them in different cases. A thorough understanding of brain imaging studies can help the medical community identify cases of TBI more readily, leading to better, faster interventions.    





This is a subject of increasing concern among doctors; traumatic brain injuries — especially of the mild variety, more commonly known as concussions — are fairly common. In 2013, around 2.5 million people visited an emergency room with TBI-related complaints. Most cases in the 15-24 age range are related to motor vehicle accidents, but among causes, there’s a close second: playing sports.   





Measuring TBI in the Sports Community





The sports community is particularly interested in improving treatment for TBI, and for good reason. Remember that more concussions and brain injuries come from playing sports than any other cause except for car accidents.





A brief glimpse through the numbers paints an alarming picture:









These statistics explain why researchers are working so hard to find fast, field-side imaging tests that can pinpoint the severity of TBI immediately following the event. Promising options include stadium MRI rooms and highly portable ultrasound; still, for most players at all levels, radiology-assisted diagnosis of TBI will involve a trip to the imaging center. This places us firmly back in CT/MRI territory.  





CT Scans in the Diagnosis of TBI





Computerized tomography (CT) scans take multiple X-rays and combine them into cross-sectional “slices” of internal structures. While this exposes the patient to small doses of ionizing radiation, but it’s also the fastest, most accurate way to identify bleeding and swelling in the brain.





Clearly, edema (brain swelling) and hematoma (bleeding in and/or around the brain) are serious conditions. The faster doctors discover them, the better for the patient. Typically, then, physicians order CT scans for suspected acute injuries to the brain. The CT scan is the modality of first access.





Later, doctors may order more CT scans to track healing in TBI instances that don’t require surgery. As with every order of an X-ray procedure, physicians weigh the benefits of the treatment against the risks posed by exposure to radiation before making a referral.  





MRI Scans in the Diagnosis of TBI





Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the go-to tool for identifying subtle effects of injury, including bruising, scarring, and microscopic damage to nerve fibers. Images produced by CT scan won’t reveal these conditions, though nerve fiber injury is a common cause of stubborn symptoms.





Sometimes brain tissue is injured too severely to recover, so MRI scans can track the results of a TBI for years following the precipitating event. This imaging modality is another powerful tool in the neuroradiologist’s brain-injury kit.  





Schedule Diagnostic Imaging for Patients with TBI





Ultimately, health care providers will determine the appropriate imaging technique for each patient showing signs of TBI. Plenty of non-radiological tests exist; these may be enough to recognize and begin treatment for milder injuries to the brain.





Physicians who need fast access to radiology services in cases of TBI can make referrals through the Precise Imaging physician’s portal. This online tool provides anytime access to the crucial services we provide.





Call Precise Imaging at 800-558-2223 to make a referral or schedule an appointment today.









References:





“Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Justification of Estimates for Appropriation Committees, Fiscal Year 2016.” CDC. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S Department of Health and Human Services, 2016. PDF. 2 Jan. 2019.





Orenstein, Beth. “A Closer Look at Concussions.” RadiologyToday. Great Valley Publishing Company, Inc., Sept. 2016. Web. 2 Jan. 2019.





Prince, Carolyn and Maya Bruhns. “Evaluation and Treatment of Mild Traumatic Brain Injury: The Role of Neuropsychology.” NLM. Brain Sciences, Aug. 2017. Web. 2 Jan. 2019.





“Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Concussion.” ASNR. American Society of Neuroradiology, n.d. Web. 2 Jan. 2019.










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