AFC X-Ray Services At Urgent Care
American Family Care clinics provide on-site digital X-ray for urgent injuries and medical concerns, delivering fast imaging, same-day results, and treatment decisions without the time or cost of an emergency department visit. Clinics use certified technologists and clinicians trained to interpret most urgent care imaging immediately so that patients receive the right care, right now.
Services, technology, access and hours
AFC clinics perform a broad set of X-ray exams commonly needed in urgent care. Typical offerings include single- and multi-view chest X-rays, extremity imaging for hands, wrists, ankles and feet, shoulder and hip studies, and targeted spine views for neck and low back complaints. Most locations use digital radiography, which reduces exposure, speeds image availability, and allows secure electronic sharing with specialists. Many clinics operate seven days a week with extended evening hours; exact hours vary by location and some sites accept walk-ins while others encourage online check-in for shorter waits.
Below are representative imaging types, approximate self-pay amounts, typical effective dose ranges (millisieverts), and expected initial turnaround for onsite clinician review. Actual pricing and dose vary by clinic and exam views.
| Imaging type | Typical self-pay range (USD) | Approximate effective dose (mSv) | Initial results available |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chest (PA or AP, 1–2 views) | $90 – $180 | 0.02 – 0.1 | Within minutes |
| Wrist / Hand (2–3 views) | $75 – $150 | <0.001 – 0.01 | Within minutes |
| Ankle / Foot (2–3 views) | $80 – $160 | <0.001 – 0.01 | Within minutes |
| Shoulder (2 views) | $90 – $200 | 0.001 – 0.02 | Within minutes |
| Cervical / Lumbar spine (2–4 views) | $150 – $320 | 0.2 – 1.5 | Minutes to same day |
| Pelvis / Hip (2 views) | $120 – $260 | 0.6 – 1.2 | Minutes to same day |
Digital images are available to patients electronically and can be sent to orthopedic surgeons, primary care clinicians, or radiology departments for secondary reads.
Clinical use, safety, and pediatric care
Common reasons for urgent care X-ray include suspected fractures after falls or sports injuries, joint dislocations, chest pain with suspected pneumonia, persistent cough or shortness of breath, localized spine pain after trauma, and evaluation of foreign bodies. Typical presenting complaints handled in AFC clinics include trauma from sports, workplace incidents, trips and falls, and acute respiratory symptoms.
- Pediatric imaging follows the Image Gently recommendations to minimize exposure. Pediatric technologists use tailored settings, shielding, and immobilization devices to reduce repeat images and anxiety.
- For sports injuries, X-rays quickly confirm displaced fractures, joint alignment, and growth-plate involvement. When fractures are identified, clinics provide splinting, pain control, and direct referrals to orthopedics.
- Chest X-rays assess pneumonia, bronchitis complications, and device placement. When viral versus bacterial causes are unclear, images guide antibiotic decisions and further testing.
Safety protocols adhere to federal and state radiation rules and facility accreditation standards. Clinics operate under the ALARA principle to keep doses as low as reasonably achievable. Lead shielding is used for reproductive-age patients and for pediatric exams when appropriate. Radiography technologists maintain state licensure and complete ongoing competency training.
Billing, results, referrals, and patient experience
AFC emphasizes transparent pricing and accepts most major commercial insurers. Many clinics accept Medicare and some accept state Medicaid plans; verification is recommended at the time of visit. Self-pay patients often receive a prompt-pay discount, and clinics promote occasional promotions for minor imaging or bundled urgent care services. Billing follows standard medical coding practices and insurers issue an explanation of benefits that details patient responsibility. Patients should request an itemized bill or a copy of the radiology report when needed for work claims or second opinions.
Onsite clinicians routinely review images immediately and document findings in the medical record. When complex readings are required, images are transmitted electronically to board-certified radiologists for formal reads, often within 24 hours. If specialist care is needed, AFC coordinates referrals and shares imaging electronically to expedite appointments.
Typical patient experience emphasizes short waits and efficient care. Walk-in availability reduces appointment barriers; many clinics display current wait times online. Emergency department comparison: an average non-admit ED visit in the U.S. commonly costs well over $1,000, whereas urgent care imaging and treatment often cost a fraction of that amount while providing timely evaluation for non-life-threatening conditions.
Quality assurance measures include regular equipment calibration, technologist credentialing, peer review of imaging, and clinic accreditation where applicable. Infection control follows CDC guidance and current public health recommendations, including protocols instituted during the COVID-19 pandemic such as screening, masking as appropriate, enhanced cleaning of radiography rooms, and reserved pathways for respiratory patients.
Frequently asked questions and practical next steps:
- How long to wait for results? Most images are available immediately; formal radiology reads arrive same day or within 24 hours.
- Will insurance cover it? Coverage depends on plan; AFC accepts major insurers and provides straightforward billing.
- How to prepare? Wear loose clothing, remove metal, and bring prior imaging on USB or accessible online.
- What if a fracture is found? Splinting and pain control are provided, with direct referral to orthopedics when needed.
To find the nearest clinic, use the clinic locator on the official AFC website or call the local number printed on clinic listings. Clinics provide hours, services offered at each site, and phone-based triage for after-hours concerns. Testimonials from patients commonly highlight avoided ER trips, rapid pain control, and clear follow-up plans with specialists when required.
