X-rays, CT scans, MRI, and ultrasound help diagnose and monitor health conditions. Learn how to prepare, what to expect at your appointment, and how to access your results.
Medical imaging tests and scans require a referral. You cannot book these tests yourself.
When you might need a test
A provider may order a test to:
- Find the cause of pain or symptoms
- Check how a treatment is working
- Monitor a health condition
- Get more information after another test
How it works
- Your provider sends a request
A family doctor, nurse practitioner, or specialist sends your request to Island Health. - We review and book
Imaging experts review your request and schedule the right test at the right location. - We contact you
You’ll receive your appointment details by: Text or email (if you use MyHealth) or by phone call. You must confirm the appointment to hold your spot. - Get ready
You’ll receive preparation instructions when you confirm.
Follow them carefully to avoid delays.
Manage your appointment
If there are any changes to your appointment, please let us know as soon as possible so your spot can be offered to someone else. If you miss your appointment without notice, you may need a new referral.
View your appointment details
To review the date, time, or location of your appointment, do any of the following:
- Sign in to MyHealth (if registered)
- Review your appointment confirmation text or email
- Call 250-370-8003 (Mon–Fri, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
Change or cancel your appointment
Call 250-370-8003 (Mon–Fri, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.). After hours, leave your full name, date of birth, and phone number.
View your results
Test results are typically ready within five business days, depending on the type of test. They are sent to the provider who ordered them, and your provider will contact you to review the results and discuss next steps. If you have not heard from your provider within five business days, please contact their office.
You can also view your results in MyHealth once they are available.
Find a location
Explore Island Health locations where medical imaging tests and scans are offered to find one near you.
- Campus Ultrasound
- Chemainus Health Care Centre
- Cormorant Island Community Health Centre
- Cowichan District Hospital
- Gold River Health Centre
- Lady Minto Hospital
- Ladysmith Community Health Centre
- Mill Bay Radiology Centre
- Munro Centre - Island Ultrasound
- Nanaimo Regional General Hospital
- North Island Hospital
- Campbell River Hospital (CRG)
- North Island Hospital Comox Valley (CVH)
- Port Hardy Hospital
- Port McNeill Hospital
- Royal Jubilee Hospital
- Saanich Peninsula Hospital
- Tofino General Hospital
- Victoria General Hospital
- West Coast General Hospital
Quick answers
Can I book my own imaging appointment?
No. Medical imaging appointments are scheduled by the imaging department once they receive a requisition from a healthcare provider.
Do I need a requisition?
Yes. Most medical imaging tests require a requisition from a healthcare provider.
What if I can’t attend my appointment?
Please contact Island Health as soon as possible so the appointment can be offered to someone else.
My provider ordered a specific test, and I was booked for a different one. Why?
Sometimes your appointment may be adjusted after your request is reviewed. Medical imaging specialists carefully review every referral to make sure you are booked for the most appropriate test based on your symptoms, medical history, and clinical guidelines. This may mean:
- A different type of scan is more accurate for your concern
- The same test is done in a slightly different way
- A related test provides better information
If you have questions about your appointment, please speak with the healthcare provider who ordered your test.
Related services & resources
Add your name to the BC Health Connect Registry and get on your local waitlist.
Call 8-1-1 to talk to a patient navigator about the support you might need.
