CHI Memorial Imaging - Hixson

Diagnostic imaging uses various technologies, like X-rays, MRIs and CT scans, to create images of the inside of your body. These images help doctors diagnose conditions and guide treatment.

In most cases, yes. Your doctor will provide a referral for imaging services based on your symptoms or condition. Please check with us or your health care provider to confirm.

You may be asked about your medical history and any symptoms you're experiencing. Depending on the test, you may need to change into a gown or remain still during the procedure. Our staff will guide you through each step.

The duration of your exam will depend on the type of imaging procedure. Most exams take between 15 and 45 minutes, but more complex procedures like MRIs may take longer.

Most imaging exams are painless. Some, like MRIs, may require you to lie still for a period, which can feel uncomfortable for some people. If you have concerns, let us know, and we'll do our best to make you comfortable.

Preparation depends on the type of exam. For some, like X-rays, no preparation is needed. For others, like MRIs or CT scans, you may need to avoid eating or drinking beforehand. We’ll provide specific instructions ahead of time.

Yes, imaging exams are generally safe. Our team follows strict safety protocols to minimize any risks. For certain tests, like X-rays or CT scans, we use the lowest possible radiation dose.

Your results will be reviewed by one of our board-certified radiologists. They will send a detailed report to your doctor, who will discuss the results with you. If necessary, follow-up appointments will be scheduled.

Yes, we offer mobile imaging services for breast and lung cancer screenings, for patients who may have difficulty accessing these services.

Mobile lung cancer screening

CHI Memorial’s mobile lung CT coach brings low-dose CT lung screenings directly into our communities. Lung screening checks for nodules, masses or signs of lung cancer. It also provides a view of the heart, allowing us to calculate a cardiac calcium score to help assess  heart disease or heart attack risk.

Because the scan covers much of the chest area, it may also reveal other findings, such as gallstones or thyroid masses, giving you valuable insights into your overall health.

Most insurance plans cover the cost of lung CT screening if you meet the criteria. If you don’t have insurance and meet the criteria, we offer grants to cover the cost of screening. Call (423) 495-5864 (LUNG) to register for a low-dose lung CT screening or to schedule a mobile CT coach for an event.

Mobile mammography

Since 2005, CHI Memorial’s Mobile Health Coaches have brought breast cancer screenings to women who might not otherwise have access. These 40-foot coaches travel thousands of miles each year to make high-quality breast screenings available to more women.

Each coach is equipped with two dressing rooms, a waiting area and a mammography room with the same advanced digital technology as our MaryEllen Locher Breast Center locations. The coaches are on the road 4–6 days a week, making 1–2 stops daily. Many women, especially those working late shifts, appreciate the convenience of walking to the coach for their annual mammogram when it’s near their workplace.

For comfort, each coach is staffed with certified female mammography technologists, and we offer softer mammograms upon request. Our mobile coaches extend this essential service to residents in 28 counties across Tennessee, Georgia and Alabama.

Call (423) 495-6744 to schedule the coach to visit your church or business.

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We accept most major insurance plans, but since coverage is frequently updated, we recommend that you check with your insurance company for details on specific plan requirements.

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Yes, we can send exam reports to multiple locations. Just let our registration staff and technologist know where you’d like them sent.