EIU Health Service Radiology Department

The Radiology Department at Eastern Illinois University Health Service is located on the first floor of the Human Services Building. It is staffed by one full-time registered Radiographer (X-Ray Technologist) and one part-time Radiographer. Both are licensed by the state of Illinois.

SERVICES OFFERED

The Radiology Department of Health Service offers the following services: digital x-rays with a radiologist’s interpretation, electrocardiograms (ECG or EKG) and rhythm strips with a cardiologist’s interpretation, and digital x-ray images on a CD.

Special procedures ordered by an EIU Health Service provider will be scheduled with other health care providers. Please contact your insurance provider regarding payment coverage.

FOR YOUR SAFETY

• One full-time radiographer (X-Ray Technologist) is employed by the Radiology Department. This technologist is specifically trained in obtaining quality x-rays, monitoring equipment performance, and insuring patient safety.
• Lead aprons (shields) are used to protect reproductive organs for most procedures, except in cases where shielding would interfere with the exam.
• The radiographer will request a detailed medical history of the reason for an x-ray, before the x-ray procedure is performed. For females, this will include whether or not there is a chance of pregnancy, as x-rays may pose a risk to the unborn fetus.
• The x-ray machine is designed to prevent leakage of radiation. Special cones are used to confine the area exposed to the x-ray beam and aluminum filters have been added to the machine to remove even more radiation.
• The Illinois Emergency Management Agency-Division of Nuclear Safety inspects all x-ray equipment annually.

CHARGES & PAYMENT OPTIONS

Students may pay via cash or they can be billed through their EIU student account. X-rays are $30 per exam when ordered by a staff physician. There is an additional charge of $5 per CD of digital x-ray images. Electrocardiograms (ECG or EKG) are $30 per visit.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

May I come into the Health Service and ask for an x-ray without first seeing a doctor?

No. Only a medical doctor can order x-rays. When you come into the Health Service, the nurse will document your condition and make an appointment with a physician if necessary.

Why are my x-rays sent to a Radiologist?

All EIU x-rays are reviewed by a Radiologist, a physician who specializes in interpreting x-rays. Most Radiology reports are available within 2 business days.

What is the difference between a Radiographer and a Radiologist?

A Radiographer is a person trained in the use of x-ray equipment and the positioning of patients for x-ray procedures. A Radiologist is a physician who specializes in interpreting x-rays.

What happens to the x-rays after the technologist takes the picture?

X-rays taken at the Health Service are the property of Eastern Illinois University. X-rays are a permanent part of the patient’s electronic medical record.

Why do I need to remove body piercings?

The metal rings or posts may interfere with the x-ray procedure. This depends on the part of the body being examined, so please inform the technologist if you have any body piercings.

Why do I have to hold my breath during an x-ray?

When a person breathes, his or her body moves. Motion creates a blurry x-ray image. When a person holds their breath, the body doesn’t move, making it easier to obtain a clearer image.

Does the Health Service Radiology Department offer mammograms, ultrasounds, CT’s, or MRI’s?

No. The Health Service Radiology Department does not have the required equipment to perform these procedures. If a staff physician orders one of these tests, we will be glad to schedule it for you at Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center or another health care facility. Please contact your insurance provider regarding payment coverage.

HOURS & CONTACT INFORMATION

The Clinic’s hours are Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM during the academic year. Summer hours are Monday through Thursday from 8 AM to 4:30 PM and Friday from 8 AM to noon.

For additional information or questions, please call the Health Service at (217) 581-3013, e-mail health@eiu.edu, or visit www.eiu.edu/health.