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FAQ: Cancer Radiology Scans and Reports
What is the difference between a radiology report and a radiology film?
A report includes the findings of a radiologist who reviews your films or scans, which are images such as an X-ray or magnetic resonance image (MRI). During your first appointment, your doctor will ask to see the radiology reports and films you have had taken. Scans may be saved on a compact disc (CD) or may be given to you as large black translucent films.
Why is my UCSF doctor requesting the films?
Your UCSF doctor may review the radiologist's report as a starting point to plan your treatment. Films are used to confirm the diagnosis and plan the surgery or other treatment. Your radiology films will be reviewed by UCSF radiologists who collaborate with your doctor.
How do I obtain the films?
Call the hospital or facility where the scans were performed. If you call a hospital, ask for the radiology department. Radiology may request that you sign a release for the films. The release form for UCSF Medical Center is available online. This release also can be used for your medical records and tissue slides.
What should I do with the films?
Please bring the films, along with your medical records and tissue slides you may have, to your new patient appointment and give them to your doctor. Any delay in providing the films can delay your diagnosis and the start of treatment or the scheduling of surgery. If you're requesting the films after your appointment, please send them to the clinic where you're being treated.
How should they be packaged and sent?
If you send the films, remember that they are fragile. Large translucent films may bend, causing a kink that can make reviewing the films difficult. Films should be packed in a stiff oversized envelope, which may be provided by Radiology for sending. If the scans are on a compact disc (CD), it should be packed in a "bubble-wrap" envelope since the disc can be scratched, bent or shattered. Please send them by FedEx or UPS so you will have a tracking number and can confirm delivery.
What if the films are lost?
Most radiology films are stored on computers. If a film is lost, you can usually request a copy from the facility where the scan was performed. Please confirm that there is another copy of the scan before sending.
If I send scans to UCSF will there be additional fees?
Yes, the hospital sending the films may ask that you pay the FedEx or UPS charges. If the films are lost, there could be a fee associated with replacing the films. When UCSF Radiology reviews the films for a second opinion, it charges a fee. Typically, insurance plans cover the cost and our staff will seek an authorization from your insurance company.
What scans should I request?
Any scans related to the disease for which you are being referred to us. These include:
- Bone scan
- Computerized tomography (CT)
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Mammograms
- Positron emission tomography (PET)
- Standard X-rays
Should I provide radiology films for follow up appointments?
Yes, if you continue to receive care at the UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center and your radiology tests aren't performed at UCSF, please bring all new radiology films and reports to your UCSF appointments.
Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.
Last updated February 19, 2008
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or health care provider. We encourage you to discuss with your doctor any questions or concerns you may have.
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