Patient Information
At Your Fingertips
FAQ's
Can I bring my children?
-We require an adult, family, or friend, to accompany any children. We are not responsible for supervising your children and in most cases children cannot accompany you during your exam.
Can I pay my bill online?
-Yes! Pls go to http://www.drpaycenter.com/pbs - have your statement from us with you, or call 775-882-0430.
If I have questions about billing who should I call?
-For all billing questions please call Professional Billing Systems: 775-882-0430
Do I need a referral form?
-Because imaging studies require the use of radiation, sound waves or high magnetic fields, a physicians order is required. The only exception to this is a screening mammogram. A woman may self refer for a screening mammogram as long as they have no problems with their breasts and are at least 40 years old.
Do you accept my insurance?
-GBI is a member of most insurance carriers. Most HMO, EPO, PPO, and Senior Plans are covered. However, if you have any questions it is best to call your insurance plan first.
Do you need my secondary insurance card?
-Yes, you should always present any insurance plans you have at the time of service.
Why do I have to show my insurance cards each time?
-We understand that it can be frustrating to have to show your insurance card each time. We do this to ensure that the correct insurance is being billed and apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
Do you offer weekend or evening appointments?
-Yes. We are open until 7pm each night and on Saturdays by appointment.
Does mammography need to be referred by a doctor?
-Screening mammograms do not need an order from a physician. If you are experienced any problems such as a lump, discharge or pain, you will need an order from your doctor.
Does my insurance cover this test?
-It depends on your plan. It is always a good idea to check with your insurance plan before your test. You may have a co-payment or a deductible that needs to be paid at the time of your x-ray.
How safe are X-rays?
-The risks associated with medical X-rays are frequently exaggerated. The chance of contracting cancer as a result of an X-ray of the chest have been estimated at about one in a million, comparable to the risk of contracting cancer by inhaling the smoke of one cigarette.
If I have an exam done at GBI, can I get it scanned onto a CD?
-Yes. If they are to take to another physician for consultation there is no charge. If you want them for your personal use, there is a $25.00 charge. Please allow 24 hours to request copies either for yourself or your physician. Call 888-1180 #4 to request a CD or film copies.
Is digital mammography better than traditional film mammography?
-A recent study suggests that digital and film mammography have very similar screening accuracy. The study indicates that digital mammography appears to be somewhat better, however, for screening women who have very dense breasts, or women who are pre- or perimenopausal.
For more information read this article:
Digital vs. Film Mammography
Is there a prep for my x-ray?
-Most plain x-rays such as an Chest, Abdomen, Ankle, and other extremities do not need appointments and do not require preps. Some of the more technical x-rays such as a Barium Enema, Pelvic Ultrasound, and Mammograms have preparations. Please visit the imaging modalities page and click on the exam you are having to see the specific preparation or call 888- 1180 #3 and speak to one of our schedulers.
Should I have a mammogram every year after age 40?
-Yes, the American Cancer Society and the American College of Radiology strongly encourage women age 40 and older to schedule annual mammograms.
Click here for more information.
What is a CT scan?
-Computed tomography (CT) is an X-ray technique using a scanner that takes a series of pictures across the body, allowing the radiologist to view the images in either two-dimensional or three-dimensional form. Spiral CT, the most modern form of this imaging, produces images within a few seconds.
What is a PET scan?
-PET (positron emission tomography) is a diagnostic imaging technique that yields highly detailed information about tissue function by using a radioactive substance.
What is fluoroscopy?
-A fluoroscopy machine produces a constant stream of X-rays that enable a doctor to observe images of internal organs in action.
What is HIPAA?
-The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) is a federal law that was enacted to reform the insurance market and simplify health care administrative processes. Doctors, hospitals, medical insurers and other health-care agencies are subject to the provisions of HIPAA, which took effect in April 2003 and mandates documentation, handling and privacy conditions for medical records and billing.
What is interventional radiology?
-This branch of radiology encompasses procedures that are minimally invasive, usually involving insertion of a needle, catheter or wire into a patient for diagnosis or treatment. Interventional radiology procedures include angioplasty, stenting and biopsies.
What is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)?
-Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is similar to a CT scan, but uses magnetism and radio waves to record a series of cross-sectional images.
What is nuclear medicine?
-Nuclear medicine is a diagnostic technology that takes advantage of the ability of specially designed cameras to detect low-energy emissions from radioisotopes. When a radioisotope is linked with certain chemicals, it can harmlessly be used to trace the workings of the human body. These tests allow radiologists to find alterations in the normal functioning of the heart, kidneys or other organs, or to detect infections or cancer.
What is the difference between a screening mammogram and a diagnostic mammogram?
-Screening mammograms are performed on women age 40 and over who have not exhibited symptoms of breast disease. Diagnostic mammograms are used to evaluate women or men with areas of suspicion found either during a physical examination or on a screening mammogram.
What is ultrasound?
-Ultrasound is a range of high-frequency sound waves above the range of human hearing. When emitted by an ultrasound probe, they travel harmlessly through the body. As they bounce off various layers of tissue the probe detects their echoes, which are displayed on a monitor as images of the internal structures of the body. Ultrasound is the preferred method for monitoring the fetus during pregnancy, and for use in diagnosing numerous conditions involving the liver, kidney, heart, blood vessels and other organs.
What type of insurance does GBI accept?
-We accept nearly all PPOs, HMOs and government plans, including Medicare, MediCal and TriCare. Please refer to your insurance plan if you are unsure.
Why should I come to work for GBI?
-GBI prides itself on being the employer of choice for its employees. We offer our employees numerous programs and special events through which to build teamwork, and we strongly believe in the importance of recognizing the achievements of our employees.
How long will it take for my doctor to recieve the results?
-Images and the reports are normally available within 24 hours of your examination.
