Imaging Services

Scope of Services | Imaging Workflow | Use Across Care Settings | Interpretation and Reporting

Skagit Radiology provides diagnostic imaging services across hospital-based and outpatient settings throughout Washington State and Alaska. Services are structured to give referring providers access to multiple imaging modalities, consistent image acquisition, and centralized interpretation across locations. The service line includes magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), X-ray, fluoroscopy, ultrasound, mammography, nuclear medicine, and interventional radiology. In practice, imaging is selected based on the clinical indication, the level of detail required, and how quickly results are needed.

Scope of Services

X-ray and CT are typically used for initial evaluation, particularly in acute settings such as trauma, chest imaging, and abdominal complaints. MRI is more often obtained when detailed soft-tissue characterization is needed, including evaluation of the brain, spine, and joints. Ultrasound supports real-time assessment of abdominal organs, pelvic structures, vascular systems, and superficial soft tissues, and is frequently used for procedural guidance.

Fluoroscopy allows dynamic imaging and is used for both diagnostic exams and certain procedures. Mammography is a form of breast imaging, including both screening and diagnostic evaluation. Nuclear medicine provides functional imaging, including studies related to oncology, cardiac function, and endocrine conditions. Interventional radiology focuses on image-guided procedures that are incorporated into ongoing patient management rather than performed as standalone diagnostics.

In day-to-day use, these modalities are not isolated. Providers often rely on more than one imaging modality, depending on what the initial study shows and what questions remain.

Imaging Workflow

Imaging studies are performed based on provider orders and are protocoled to match the clinical indication and the anatomy being evaluated. Standard protocols are used across locations, so studies are performed consistently and interpreted comparably, regardless of where they are conducted. All imaging is digital and stored in PACS, allowing radiologists to review current studies alongside prior exams when available.

In many cases, imaging occurs in steps rather than as a single exam. An X-ray may lead to CT for further evaluation, or ultrasound findings may prompt MRI when additional detail is needed. CT or MRI results may then guide whether a patient proceeds with biopsy, image-guided intervention, surgical consultation, or follow-up imaging. Imaging findings are considered alongside clinical evaluation, lab work, and prior studies when decisions are being made.

Studies performed at different locations remain accessible, supporting comparisons over time—even when imaging was completed at another site. This is particularly important in a multi-site environment, where patients may receive care across different facilities but still require consistent longitudinal evaluation.

Use Across Care Settings

Imaging services are available across partner hospitals and outpatient imaging centers throughout Washington State and Alaska. This allows providers to refer patients based on location, scheduling needs, and the type of study required. Outpatient centers typically support scheduled exams and follow-up imaging, while hospital-based imaging supports emergency department, inpatient, and procedure-related needs.

Patients often move between these settings over time. Imaging may begin in the emergency department, continue with outpatient follow-up, and later be repeated for monitoring or treatment planning. Having access to prior imaging across those settings helps maintain continuity and supports more consistent interpretation.

This structure also allows referring providers to work with the same radiology group across different stages of care, rather than transitioning between unrelated imaging providers.

Interpretation and Reporting

Board-certified radiologists interpret all studies. Reports are structured to focus on clinically relevant findings and to communicate results clearly to the referring provider. When available, prior imaging is reviewed and considered alongside the clinical information provided at the time of the study.

Reports are intended to support decision-making and may include recommendations for follow-up imaging or additional evaluation when appropriate. Turnaround time is aligned with clinical urgency, with priority given to emergent and time-sensitive studies.

When needed, communication pathways are in place for direct notification of significant or unexpected findings. Reporting practices remain consistent across modalities and locations, helping maintain clarity and reliability in communication between radiology and referring providers.

Imaging Services

Scope of Services

Imaging Workflow

Use Across Care Settings

Interpretation and Reporting

Computed Tomography – CT

Magnetic Resonance Imaging – MRI

Interventional Radiology

Mammography

Nuclear Medicine

Fluoroscopy

Ultrasound

X-Ray