Digital X-Ray

Yes, a referral from a registered medical practitioner (GP, specialist, physiotherapist, dentist, etc.) is required for Medicare bulk billing. Your referral tells our radiographers what views to take and provides important clinical context for the reporting radiologist.

If you do not have a referral, please contact your GP first. Same-day appointments are usually available at most GP practices.

Digital X-ray (also called digital radiography) uses the same fundamental principle as conventional film X-ray, directing a controlled beam of radiation through the body to create an image. The difference is in how the image is captured and processed.

Digital detectors replace film, producing images electronically. This means:

• Significantly lower radiation dose (up to 70% less than film-based systems)
• Images are available almost instantly no waiting for film development
• Higher image quality with the ability to adjust contrast and zoom digitally
• Images can be shared electronically with your doctor immediately

Digital X-ray uses very low doses of radiation and our low-dose digital suites reduce this even further compared to older technology. To put it in perspective:

• A chest X-ray delivers roughly the same radiation as 2–3 days of normal background radiation from the environment
• A limb X-ray (hand, foot, ankle) delivers negligible radiation is less than one day of background exposure

Our radiographers follow strict protocols to use the minimum dose necessary to obtain a diagnostic image. We use shielding where appropriate and always weigh the diagnostic benefit against any theoretical risk.

If you are pregnant or suspect you might be, please always tell our staff before your examination. In many cases, X-ray can still be performed safely with appropriate shielding and positioning, particularly for areas far from the abdomen (such as chest, hands, or feet). The radiation dose to the unborn baby in these cases is extremely small.

For imaging of the abdomen, pelvis, or lower spine, we will discuss the risks and benefits carefully with you and your referring doctor. Alternatives such as ultrasound or MRI (which do not use ionising radiation) may be recommended where clinically appropriate.

Most X-ray examinations are completed within 10 to 15 minutes from the time you enter the X-ray room. The actual X-ray exposure itself takes only a fraction of a second most of the time is spent positioning you correctly to obtain the best diagnostic images.

More complex examinations requiring multiple views (such as a full spine series or detailed joint study) may take up to 20-30 minutes.

Yes, This means there is no out-of-pocket cost for Medicare card holders with a valid referral.

Please bring your Medicare card and referral to your appointment. If you do not have a Medicare card, please call us before attending and we can discuss your options.

Your images are reviewed by our qualified radiologist who prepares a written report. Reports are typically sent electronically to your referring doctor within 48-72 hours of your examination.

If there is an urgent or unexpected finding, our radiologist will contact your referring doctor directly and immediately. You should follow up with your GP or specialist to discuss your results - Matrix does not provide results directly to patients.

Absolutely. Our radiographers have specialist training in paediatric imaging and are experienced at working with children of all ages. We understand that visits to a medical clinic can be frightening for young patients and take extra care to make the experience as calm and comfortable as possible.

We use our lowest possible radiation settings for children and employ appropriate shielding. A parent or guardian is welcome to remain in the room (with a lead apron) to provide reassurance.

Both X-ray and CT (Computed Tomography) use ionising radiation to create images, but they differ significantly in what they show and when they're used:

• X-ray produces 2D images and excellent for bones, fractures, chest assessment, and quick screening. Fast, low-dose, and widely available.
• CT scan takes multiple X-ray images from different angles to create detailed 3D cross-sectional views. It provides far more detail of soft tissues, organs, blood vessels, and complex anatomy.

Your doctor will choose the most appropriate imaging based on your clinical needs. In some cases, an X-ray may be performed first and a CT recommended only if further detail is required.