Here on the Gold Coast, our Philips X-Ray imaging equipment uses next-generation image processing to provide patients with exemplary images of all anatomical areas. We ensure our systems provide fast, outstanding digital images for our referrers. You can be assured of diagnostic services that are second to none with systems that reduce noise and automatically enhance even the smallest details.
For ease, we are also a Bulk Billing provider through Medicare for certain examinations.
What is an X-RAY
To allow our doctors to understand your unique needs, please bring any previous scans with you to your examination.
At Mermaid Beach Radiology in Queensland, Australia, we use advanced digital x-ray equipment to minimise any discomfort in obtaining an image. If you are pregnant or suspect that you may be, you must tell your doctor or radiographer before the test is performed as special precautions may have to be taken.
We are a Bulk Billing provider for some exams and so we will ensure that any payment for your treatment is made directly from Medicare if possible. If you have any questions about how the Medicare benefits system works, you can check the Medicare website for more information.
What is an X-ray used for?
An x-ray is a form of medical imaging used for getting an accurate image of body structures.
They can be helpful in identifying bone density, or even informing on general issues regarding patient care, to help identify the cause of discomfort or ruling out any concerns.
Before an X-RAY?
You do not need to make an appointment for any x-ray imaging services at Mermaid Beach Radiology Clinic on the Gold Coast, Queensland. There is no special preparation required for most x-rays. You can eat and drink normally before and after the scan. You may be asked to change into a gown by staff before your examination. You may also be asked to remove jewellery, eyeglasses and any metal objects that may obscure the images.
Usually, it would be useful for you to bring any reports that previous radiologists have provided you with or any results that specialists have provided as a result of any previous imaging procedures.
After an X-RAY?
There is no specific aftercare required as a result of your scan.
We take very good care of our patients here at Mermaid Beach Radiology, and if you feel that that you are experiencing any anxiety or discomfort please let us know.
What happens during my X-ray?
Depending on the part of your body that needs to be X-rayed, you might be asked to remove your clothes and change into a hospital gown during your X-ray. The radiographer will position you or ask you to lie down on the bed. It can take a few minutes to be positioned correctly, and then you will be asked to remain still.
Your radiographer will then move behind a screen to use the machine. They can still hear and see you during the X-ray, where one or multiple X-rays will be taken. You may be asked to move into different positions for X-rays at other angles to be taken. You will be guided by your radiographer throughout this, and the process should last no more than a few minutes.
Are there any risks associated with having an X-Ray?
X-rays are considered very safe, but there is a small risk. The part of your body being examined is exposed to a low level of radiation, equivalent to a few days to years of exposure to natural radiation from the environment.
This exposure has a small risk of causing cancer years or decades later, but the risk is very small. The benefits of an X-ray outweigh this small risk, with healthcare professionals considering them a safe option for patients.
Meet our experienced team of radiologists on the Gold Coast
Our Radiologist
Dr Zane Sherif
MBBS, FRANZCR
Mermaid Beach Radiology was founded in 2021 with the mission to provide personalised imaging for every client. The “cookie cutter” approach to imaging that exists at present makes little change between clients with different physiology and body types; and far too often the results are too ordinary. The experience of radiology high radiation dose, high noise and often not able to answer the clinical question.
Our MRI & Clinical Research Director
Ben Kennedy
MRI & Clinical Research Director
Ben Kennedy is currently the MRI Clinical and Research Director at Mermaid Beach Radiology. He has a master's degree in MRI from the University of Queensland and his specialties are sequence development and translation of research applications into clinical mainstream imaging. Ben has been an invited speaker at ISMRM, SMRT and ESMRB covering such topics as pulse sequence optimization, MRI physics and specialized clinical applications. Along with his current responsibilities at Mermaid Beach Radiology, Ben is also an Adjunct Research Fellow at the Menzies School of Health Research.
Our Chief Radiographer & SPECTRAL Scientist
Alex Ryvachuk
Chief Radiographer & SPECTRAL Scientist
Alex holds Bachelors Degrees in Biomedical Science and Radiography from Griffith and QUT, retrospectively. He has worked both publicly and privately spanning 16 years in Medical Imaging.He is both MRI and CT trained and experienced in all things SPECTRAL. He comes from a background of training and educating radiographers in advanced imaging techniques and is always happy to take the time to explain things to those not experienced in the medical field.
Alex is a caring and jovial person who enjoys being a dad, a friend and a team member. He loves travelling the world and waking up early to see his football team lose.
Our Head Sonographer
Bryce Allen
Head Sonographer
Bryce is head sonographer of Mermaid Beach Radiology. He enjoys sucking at golf, performing dodgy renovations at home, and having a hack on his twinnie surfboard. Originating from Coffs Harbour, he, his wife and fur child have lived on the GC now for 10 years. He has worked with specialists in pain management, regenerative procedures, and early detection cancer biopsies, but his passion is for musculoskeletal ultrasound, in particular neurovascular pathology and sports injuries. MRI has always been gold standard for MSK, and it is his hope to advance ultrasound to match it.
Book an X-Ray with our Gold Coast radiology group today
If you have any questions regarding the technology of our clinics or the expertise of our doctors, we are always happy to to have a conversation ensuring we uphold your wellbeing and peace of mind.
We understand that medical imaging can be a scary process for some patients, especially young adults and children, and so we ensure that after a referral we take every step possible to make your experience in our clinic comfortable and memorable.
We provide Bulk Billing services through Medicare for some examinations. If you have any questions about our clinic or services, get in touch with us and we’ll be happy to speak about your needs before your appointment.
Hours of Operation
Monday – Friday 9:00am to 6:00pm
Saturday – Closed
Sunday – Closed
X-Ray scan FAQs
Are X-rays covered by Medicare?
X-rays are covered by Medicare when your doctor or healthcare provider orders them to treat a medical problem. For example, an x-ray needed to confirm a broken bone would be covered by Medicare Part B. Inpatient and outpatient x-rays are covered by Medicare, providing they are ordered by your doctor and are needed to diagnose and treat a medical problem.
Are there any possible side effects of an X-Ray?
X-rays are considered very safe, but there is a slightly increased risk of cancer, especially if you have multiple X-rays. Exposure to radiation levels can cause fainting, hair loss, vomiting, bleeding, and the loss of skin and hair. These side effects are rare from an X-ray but speak to your doctor if you experience any of them following an X-ray.
Are X-Ray scans bulk billed?
Your X-ray scan might be eligible for our bulk-billing through Medicare. You can access bulk billing on certain examinations. Please contact us to confirm if your X-ray is eligible.
Do I need a referral for an X ray?
You will need a referral for an x-ray at Mermaid Beach Radiology. We need a referral from your practitioner or healthcare provider before we can book your X-ray appointment.
When will I get my x ray scan results?
Your X-ray results can take seven to ten days. When the X-ray is urgent, your results can be pushed through within forty-eight hours. An X-ray for a suspect broken bone would be delivered quickly to ensure your treatment can progress quickly.
World-Class Radiology
