Outpatient Diagnostics
Bay Medical's Outpatient Diagnostic Services
Bay Medical Diagnostics
Bay Medical provides the best in diagnostic testing by combining the sophisticated power of technology and computers with the expertise of highly skilled physicians and technologists. Bay Medical offers the most comprehensive network of diagnostic testing in the area, all backed by a regional hospital.
X-rays
Bay Medical offers x-rays at two locations, which means more convenience and less waiting time for patients. Most x-rays are available on a walk-in basis without an appointment and take only a few minutes to complete.
Mammography
Mammography is x-ray imaging of the breast which is used to detect tumors and cysts, often much earlier than can be detected by touch. Bay Medical's advanced mammography equipment combined with experienced and friendly technologists provides high quality diagnostic studies. The mammography equipment compresses the breast so that all breast tissue can be more clearly seen on the film. The pressure needed for compression for a high-quality mammogram may cause some brief discomfort but is necessary for a high quality examination. Bay Medical's mammography service is accredited by the American College of Radiology and is a certified mammography facility by the US Food and Drug Administration.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Bay Medical combines the latest in MRI technology available with the experience of registered technologists to provide the highest quality imaging. MRI involves the use of a powerful magnetic field, radiowaves and high-powered computers to produce anatomical images so clear that it's almost like looking into the body. MRI is helpful in evaluating disease and injury to the body, particularly in the neurological and orthopedic area. This type of imaging enables physicians to see highly detailed images of the internal body structures without surgery and without using X-rays. Bay Medical offers both conventional and open MRI systems for our patients. The open MRI is often helpful for patients who previously could not be tested because of their size or problems with claustrophobia. Bay Medical's MRI facility is the only one in the area to be accredited by the American College of Radiology.
Stereotactic Breast Biopsy
Stereotactic breast biopsy is a technique in which a sample of breast tissue, or biopsy, is removed for analysis by the physician using only a needle, without the need for more invasive surgery. The procedure is done as an outpatient without being admitted to the hospital. Taking about an hour to complete, patients are able to go home immediately afterwards with only a Band-Aid in place, and can usually return to normal activities the same day. While it's important to remember that most suspicious areas are non-malignant, early diagnosis is important in the treatment of cancer.
DEXA Scan (Bone Densitometry)
Bay Medical uses DEXA scan, one of the most advanced and precise tools available to measure bone density in the evaluation of osteoporosis, a disease characterized by decreased bone density. The DEXA scan, which is a specialized type of X-ray, takes only a few minutes to complete and involves no invasive procedures or injections. Taking specialized images of the spine and hip, DEXA scan is able to provide physicians a measurement of overall bone density. This test is important in the evaluation and monitoring of those patients who may suffer from or be prone to osteoporosis. Because osteoporosis can be treated and even reversed in many cases, DEXA provides an important tool for patients and physicians.
Computer Tomography (CT)
CT scan equipment at Bay Medical provides fast and accurate imaging of the body for evaluating injury or disease. CT allows physicians to obtain and evaluate wafer-thin cross-sections of the inside of the body. These highly detailed images assist the physician in making a quick and accurate diagnosis.
Laboratory
Laboratory testing is available at Bay Medical that is convenient to physicians and patients. Laboratory test results are typically available to physicians within 24 hours, although some tests require additional time for final results.
Ultrasound
Bay Medical offers ultrasound testing for patients in a comfortable setting. Well known for its use in obstetrical and fetal imaging, ultrasound is widely used to evaluate most body systems to include the organs of the abdomen, pelvis and the vascular system. Completely non-invasive and painless, ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves as its imaging source. Bay Medical ultrasound technologists are specially trained in ultrasound and are certified by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers.
Nuclear Medicine
Nuclear medicine imaging is provided at Bay Medical using radioactive isotopes to visualize and image specific body systems and organs. While the procedures require the injection of a short lived radioactive material, the procedures are painless and have no aftereffect. Nuclear medicine has a wide variety of uses including evaluation of the cardiovascular system, bones, lungs and abdominal organs. All technologists in nuclear medicine at Bay Medical are certified nuclear medicine technologists.
Electrocardiogram (EKG)
An EKG is a brief and painless procedure that measures the heart's electrical activity in the evaluation of cardiovascular disease. EKG is available at both Bay Medical diagnostic locations and can often be done without an appointment.
For more information about diagnostic services and tests at Bay Medical Outpatient Center, please call (850) 747-6987. Tests and diagnostic procedures are covered by most insurance policies, including Medicare. It is important for patients to bring their physicians orders with the diagnosis for each procedure and test.