It’s common to feel a little nervous when your doctor recommends an imaging test. You may wonder if something serious is wrong, or why a scan is necessary in the first place. But in most cases, imaging isn’t a cause for alarm — it’s a valuable tool that helps your healthcare provider gather more information to ensure you get the best care possible.

At GLMI, we help patients throughout Buffalo, Williamsville, Cheektowaga, Orchard Park, and Cambria understand their imaging options and what to expect. Here’s what your doctor means when they recommend an imaging test — and how it fits into your care plan.

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Why Doctors Order Imaging Tests

Medical imaging allows physicians to look inside the body without surgery. These exams provide detailed pictures of your organs, bones, and blood vessels, helping your doctor confirm or rule out possible causes for your symptoms. In many cases, imaging is ordered not because your doctor expects bad news, but because they want to be thorough.

Common reasons for ordering an imaging test include:

• Evaluating pain, swelling, or injury
• Monitoring chronic conditions such as vascular disease or arthritis
• Detecting early signs of illness before symptoms appear
• Confirming that a treatment or surgery was successful
• Checking for infections, fractures, or blockages

Simply put, imaging provides clarity — and clarity leads to better care.

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Different Imaging Tests and What They Reveal

Not all imaging tests are the same. Each one uses different technology to provide specific types of information. Your doctor chooses the exam that best fits your symptoms or condition.

1. Ultrasound

Ultrasound uses sound waves to create real-time images of soft tissues and organs. It’s commonly used to evaluate blood flow, detect clots, or assess organ function. Because it uses no radiation, it’s safe for nearly everyone and ideal for vascular studies, thyroid exams, and abdominal evaluations.

2. Low-Dose CT Scans

CT scans combine multiple X-ray images to produce detailed cross-sections of your body. They’re helpful for identifying internal injuries, lung conditions, tumors, and blockages. GLMI’s low-dose CT technology minimizes radiation exposure while maintaining clear, accurate results.

3. PET/CT Scans

PET/CT combines two advanced technologies — one showing structure and the other showing activity — to help doctors identify cancer, infection, or organ dysfunction. This type of imaging is often used for cancer diagnosis and follow-up, as well as assessing cardiac or neurological function.

4. Nuclear Medicine

Nuclear medicine imaging evaluates how well organs and tissues are functioning at the cellular level. It’s especially useful for assessing heart function, thyroid disorders, and bone metabolism in patients with chronic disease or unexplained symptoms.

5. Bone Densitometry

Also known as a bone density scan, this test measures bone strength and helps detect osteoporosis early — before fractures occur. It’s an important preventive screening for aging adults and postmenopausal women.

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Imaging as a Preventive Health Tool

Doctors don’t always order imaging because something is wrong. Often, it’s to make sure everything is right. Preventive imaging helps identify potential health risks before symptoms appear, allowing for early intervention and more successful treatment outcomes.

For example, a low-dose CT scan can detect early signs of lung disease in high-risk patients, while ultrasound can assess vascular circulation to prevent future complications. Preventive imaging is a proactive way to stay ahead of disease rather than reacting to it later.

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What to Expect During Your Imaging Appointment

At GLMI, your comfort and understanding come first. When you arrive, our friendly technologists will explain the procedure, answer your questions, and guide you through every step of the process. Most exams are quick, painless, and non-invasive.

Here’s what you can generally expect:

• You’ll be asked to remove metal objects like jewelry or belts.
• You may change into a gown for your scan.
• Depending on the type of exam, you may be asked to hold your breath or remain still for a few seconds.
• Some scans require contrast dye to highlight certain tissues — your technologist will let you know if that’s necessary.

Once complete, your images will be reviewed by a board-certified radiologist. Your doctor will receive a detailed report, usually within a few days, and discuss the results with you directly.

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Safety and Accuracy You Can Trust

Modern imaging is extremely safe. GLMI uses state-of-the-art equipment designed to minimize radiation exposure and maximize diagnostic accuracy. Exams such as ultrasound, bone densitometry, and nuclear medicine involve little to no radiation exposure at all.

Our radiologists and technologists follow rigorous safety protocols for every exam. We also tailor imaging parameters based on patient size, medical history, and specific diagnostic goals — ensuring that every scan provides meaningful information without unnecessary exposure.

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When Follow-Up Imaging Is Recommended

Sometimes your doctor may recommend follow-up imaging after your initial scan. This doesn’t always mean something serious was found — it may simply be to confirm healing, verify treatment effectiveness, or establish a baseline for future comparisons.

For example, if you had a stent placed, imaging can ensure it’s working properly. If you’re being treated for an infection or inflammation, repeat scans may verify that your body is responding to treatment. Follow-up imaging is a sign that your healthcare team is being thorough, not alarmed.

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How GLMI Works With Your Physician

At GLMI, we view imaging as a partnership between patients, radiologists, and physicians. Our board-certified radiologists interpret every scan with precision and provide your doctor with detailed, timely reports to guide the next steps in your care.

We also make it simple for physicians across Western New York to collaborate with our team — ensuring your results are seamlessly integrated into your treatment plan. Whether your imaging is routine or part of a larger diagnostic process, you can count on GLMI to deliver accuracy and reliability every time.

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Why Western New York Patients Choose GLMI

For decades, GLMI has been the trusted name in imaging for families across Western New York. We combine advanced technology with personalized care to make every imaging experience comfortable, efficient, and accurate. Our locations in Williamsville, Cheektowaga, Orchard Park, and Cambria provide convenient access to exceptional care close to home.

Whether your doctor has recommended a CT scan, ultrasound, PET/CT, or other study, GLMI ensures a safe, seamless experience from start to finish.

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Schedule Your Imaging With Confidence

When your doctor recommends an imaging test, it’s because they want to see the full picture of your health. At GLMI, we’re here to make that process clear, comfortable, and reassuring — so you can take the next step in your care with confidence.

Contact GLMI today to schedule your imaging appointment or learn more about our advanced diagnostic services throughout Western New York.

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Medical Disclaimer

Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider about your specific symptoms and treatment options.