Tracy Gilchrist

Review of Columbus Diagnostic Center

I have had two imaging tests done here in the past...

I have had two imaging tests done here in the past. The first was a great experience but the second was awful. Front reception desk was great. My male MRI technician was groosly unsympathetic and cold. The MRI was being done on my neck but a more recently diagnosed rotator cuff tear was my problem during this particular MRI. I explained my left shoulder could not completely fall back and if we could prop it up slightly. Denied. My elbow? Denied. I was only offered a call to the doctor for something to help me relax or to reschedule a different type of test if I couldn't make it through the MRI. I explained why I couldn't take pain medication and he seemed annoyed. I knew I had to suck it up to get the best images possible...this is the best of the best imaging tests. I wiggled around trying to find the least painful position with him standing over me with nothing more to say than "let me know when you are ready". I asked if I could use my other arm to grasp my left wrist to hold up my arm slightly. This was my only solution that he agreed to and I kept silent as I wondered the difference between that and a towel or pillow. I almost didn't make it through the test. Couldn't hold my arm for that long. Wondered how bad the images were due to my movement trying to hold my arm up, shaking from the pain, hyperventilating breathing pattern from crying and trying to breath through my snot. He didn't even offer me a hand to get up off the table knowing I couldn't use my arm. Nor did he offer me a tissue to wipe the tears and snot. Only time my shoulder pain has been a 10/10 was during this test and I am a tough cookie. Shoulder Surgeon was shocked by my story and assured me I could have been and SHOULD have been accommodated. For his MRI...he sent me to Bridgeway in Phenix City.

As a registered nurse, I know the roll compassion, patience, good service and care play on patient outcomes. These imaging tests are one of, if not THE most important tools that doctors utilizes to diagnose and treat their patients. If it is not done correctly, what might your doctor miss?

Tracy Gilchrist