News

BULK BILLED Mammograms: Early Detection Saves Lives – Talk to Your GP for a Referral Today!

 

At Synergy Radiology, your health is our priority. That’s why we offer fully bulk billed mammograms for patients with a valid Medicare card, where the clinical indication meets the required Medicare criteria for a rebate. Breast health is essential, and we’re here to make sure cost isn’t a barrier to getting the care you need.

Please note: Medicare does not cover screening mammography.

Why Mammograms Matter

Breast cancer affects thousands of Australians every year. Early detection through mammograms remains one of the most effective ways to detect breast cancer early, significantly improving survival rates. This is especially important during Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, when we encourage all women to take action for their health.

Alarming Statistics

  • 58 Australians are diagnosed with breast cancer each day—more than 21,000 new cases annually.
  • Despite advances in treatment, 9 Australians die daily from this disease.
  • When breast cancer is detected early, the five-year survival rate is nearly 100%.

Mammograms can identify cancer before it shows any symptoms, giving you a better chance of a full recovery.

Bulk Billed Mammograms at Synergy Radiology

If you meet the Medicare criteria, our mammogram services are fully bulk billed at Synergy Radiology, meaning no out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic mammograms. Just ask your GP for a referral today!

How to Book

  • Talk to your GP about getting a referral for a bulk billed mammogram at Synergy Radiology.
  • Once you have a referral, contact us to schedule your appointment.

Don’t wait—early detection saves lives. Make your health a priority this Breast Cancer Awareness Month and book your mammogram today.

Contact Synergy Radiology to schedule your mammogram, or ask your GP for a referral.

 

Important Update: We are moving from Medinexus to InteleConnect

We are moving from Medinexus to InteleConnect

We are discontinuing MEDINEXUS and will now streamline all referrer image access via InteleConnect.

To ensure uninterrupted service, please apply for an InteleConnect login by completing our Referrer Signup Form. Completing this form does not automatically create an account. Your IntelePACS administrator will verify your information and contact you once your account is activated.

Thank you for your cooperation.

MRI Sedation Information

Some patients undergoing an MRI scan who are claustrophobic may require Sedation (Hypnovel) to help relax and feel comfortable to have their scan completed.

Hypnovel contains the active substance midazolam, which belongs to a group of medicines known as benzodiazepines. It is a short-acting medicine that is used to induce sedation (a very relaxed state of calm, drowsiness, or sleep) and relieves anxiety and muscle tension. This is given intravenously usually through a vein in the arm.

Although we would like this service to be available to everyone, we must be very careful of the patients that receive this drug as there are risks associated with the administration of it. If we feel you are at high risk of a reaction or complication your sedation may be cancelled and be better suited in a hospital environment.

To be aware of the risks prior to the scan, we would like to inform you that possible side effects include:

  • Anaphylactic shock (a life-threatening allergic reaction). Signs may include a sudden rash, itching or lumpy rash (hives) and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or other parts of the body. You may also have shortness of breath, wheezing or trouble breathing, or a pale skin, a weak and rapid pulse, or feeling of loss of consciousness. Additionally, you may experience chest pain, which can be a sign of a potentially serious allergic reaction called Kounis syndrome.
  • Heart attack (cardiac arrest). Signs may include chest pain which may spread to your neck and shoulders and down your left arm.
  • Breathing problems or complications (sometimes causing the breathing to stop).
  • Choking and sudden blockage of the airway (laryngospasm).

Other possible side effects include:

  • Effects on behaviour: restlessness, agitation, irritability, nervousness, anxiety, hostility, anger or aggression, excitement, hyperactivity, changes in libido.
  • Muscle problems: muscle spasms and muscle tremors (shaking of your muscles that you cannot control).
  • Mental and Nervous system problems: confusion, disorientation, emotional and mood disturbances, involuntary movements, nightmares, abnormal dreams, hallucinations.
  • Heart and circulation problems: low blood pressure, slow heart rate, redness of the face and neck (flushing), fainting or headache.
  • Breathing problems: shortness of breath, hiccup.
  • Stomach, gut and mouth problems: feeling sick or being sick, constipation, dry mouth.
  • Skin problems: rash, hives (lumpy rash), itchiness.
  • Injury: Patients taking benzodiazepine medicines are at risk of falling and breaking bones. This risk is increased in the elderly and those taking other sedatives (including alcohol).
  • General: tiredness (fatigue).
  • Elderly patients: Life-threatening side effects are more likely to occur in adults over 60 years of age and those who already have breathing difficulties or heart problems, particularly when the injection is given too quickly or at a high dose.
  • Patients with severe kidney disease: Patients with severe kidney disease are more likely to experience side effects.

How to Prepare for an MRI with Sedation?

To ensure the scan runs as smooth and as safe as possible it is very important to:

  • Fast for 6 hours before your appointment time, including food, drink, alcohol, and cigarettes.
  • Organise a friend or family member to attend the appointment with you. You will not be able to drive for 24 hours and will not be able to take a taxi or Uber home. For safety reasons you will need to leave the practice in the care of someone who will accompany you home.
  • Stop taking any anti-anxiety (e.g. Valium), anti-depressants (e.g. Zoloft), or sleeping tablets (e.g. Temazepam) 24 hours before your appointment.

Post Care after having Sedation.

To ensure the safety of the sedated patient, after the scan you will:

  • Remain on site for a minimum of 1 hour until you have returned to a baseline of consciousness.
  • Will only be permitted to leave under the care and supervision of a friend or family member who will be provided with verbal and written care instructions.
  • Not be able to drive or operate any machinery for 24 hours after sedation.

Introducing Our New Radiology Practice in Randwick

We are thrilled to announce we will be opening our newest Synergy Radiology practice in the vibrant community of Randwick this coming June! This expansion is a testament to our commitment to providing accessible, high-quality radiology services and fostering better patient outcomes through leading-edge technology and compassionate care.

Leading-Edge Diagnostic Imaging

At Synergy Radiology Randwick, our leading-edge technology, paired with our expertise, is setting a new standard in diagnostic imaging. Our Randwick facility will be equipped with the latest advancements in radiology, ensuring market-leading image quality, optimal clarity, and outstanding diagnostic capability. From advanced low-dose CT scans, high-resolution ultrasound, and advanced 3D Mammography, our comprehensive services are designed to meet a wide range of healthcare needs.

Our new Randwick location will offer comprehensive radiology services tailored to your needs.

Patient-Centred Care in a Modern Facility

Synergy Radiology Randwick is not just about advanced technology; it’s about providing a seamless and stress-free patient experience. From our friendly and knowledgeable staff to our modern, comfortable facilities, every aspect of our practice is designed with your well-being in mind. We believe in a patient-centred approach, where care is tailored to individual needs, ensuring a welcoming and reassuring environment.

The opening of Synergy Radiology Randwick marks an exciting new chapter in our journey. We invite you to visit our new practice and discover how we can support you and your loved ones in achieving optimal health outcomes.

Stay tuned to our upcoming news and follow us on our social media channels for updates and the official launch date of Synergy Radiology Randwick.

CELEBRATING SONOGRAPHERS’ DAY – 27th October 2023

When leading-edge technology, expertise and passion are mixed well, the result is healthcare excellence. Sonographers are a group in the mix who often remain unnamed despite their invaluable contributions to community health. These specialists are armed with the knowledge and skillset to conduct ultrasound scans that can make a significant impact on a patient’s life.

To celebrate the dedication and hard work of our sonographers, we decided to make Sonographers’ Day extra sweet this year with some cupcakes for each practice. We took the opportunity to hear from our sonographers as they reflected on their motives to pursuing a career in sonography and we felt the responses were both heartwarming and enlightening.

We asked them two important questions:

  1. What inspired you to become a Sonographer?
  2. What do you enjoy most about being a Sonographer?

We loved speaking with our Sono-team, learning what makes them tick and realising it takes a particular person to be a sonographer. We credit these outstanding individuals who work diligently behind the scenes to ensure the best care for our patients.

Synergy Radiology Auburn

I was always interested in the inner human body and how accessible it became through ultrasound. I think this role plays a crucial part in the healthcare system, and I believe I make a positive impact on someone’s life as well as the opportunity to contribute to the overall well-being of the community.   – Erica

Exposed to one semester at university and spiked my interest since then. Meeting new people and learning something new every day – Keeps us interested. – Isabelle

Ultrasound is more challenging and more interesting. It has so many varieties. I find the human body fascinating. It involves lots of ongoing learning and clinical practice. Ultrasound plays an important role in managing patients’ treatments. Always feel satisfied after making diagnoses, which help patients receive more effective treatment. I really enjoy teamwork and problem solving. – Bo

For worklife balance. Helping people while still always learning and seeing interesting cases. – Nicole

I have a passion for ultrasound. Love meeting people and helping people. – Shirley

I love to help diagnose a health issue. With extensive scanning experience build up over years. – Maxine

Every sonographer acts like a private investigator. – Itab

I want to help people in a meaningful way. No two bodies are the same and sonography always offers new interesting cases to learn from. – Vernon

Variety in case load – different patients with different pathology and symptoms to take into account. Team collaboration with radiologist, radiographer and reception staff.

  • Interest in learning more, e.g anatomy, pathology and diagnosis
  • Positive impact on patients’ life through diagnosis and non-radiation imaging.
  • Advancing medical technology + ultrasound guided procedures possible in medical field. – Anushka

Synergy Radiology Campsie Beamish St

I chose to become a Sonographer through my strong interests in investigating pathology and helping patients find a diagnosis. I enjoy having meaningful patient interactions and following them through their healthcare journey.

Continual learning and development as a Sonographer make it a fascinating and fulfilling career. I enjoy attending conferences and working together with others to improve our knowledge and patient outcomes. – Jenny

There’s always something new to learn in ultrasound and it is always challenging. – Stella

Synergy Radiology Lakeside

I was a Radiographer and I wanted to progress into the next phase of my career, being a Sonographer!! – Yung

I love being able to see a growing baby in obstetric scans! – Isabella

Synergy Radiology Norwest 

Starting as a Radiographer, I wanted to progress to the next level of my career. Feeling rewarded when I can find the cause of the patient’s symptoms. – Yung

I was looking for a challenge, and I certainly found it! Finding the answer and helping the patient on their health journey. – Kym

The thrill of scanning babies. Flexibility with family life. The search to find an answer. Each case is different. – Monda

I wanted to learn something new within diagnostic imaging, to advance my knowledge and skills. Being a detective by trying to understand clinical history, clinical symptoms and the imaging to figure out the problem (or ‘no’ problem). – Monica

I wanted to work in healthcare, in a role that would be challenging and interesting. I honestly found ultrasound really cool. I love that we can scan such a wide variety of cases. No 2 patients are the same. It is so satisfying finding out what the problem is, no matter how easy or challenging it is. – Tania

Interesting career, and I like being involved in the diagnostic process and being able to interpret this unique style of imaging that not many people understand. The fulfilment of helping people by providing valuable information for diagnosing and directing treatment for a variety of diseases and conditions. – Moustafa

My mother was diagnosed with breast cancer when I was 15, and then again when I was 18. Seeing her survive both times, inspired me to do something in the field of healthcare. I did Radiography for 8 years and needed something to challenge me further, so I ventured out into ultrasound. No matter how many years you have been in this field, you’re guaranteed to learn something new every single day. This keeps your fascination going, your interest alive, and your mind constantly fuelling. Being bored and stagnant is not for me! – Tina

Synergy Radiology Rouse Hill

To face new challenges and to help others. – Natalie

I chose to become a Sonographer as I love working closely with patients and listening to their symptoms to find a diagnosis. It’s very satisfying to be able to answer the clinical question. – Louise

I found the sonography subject at uni to be really interesting and I wanted to expand my medical imaging knowledge. I love the variety of each day and the satisfaction of finding the patient’s problem! – Emma

To have one-on-one interaction with patients while helping the clinical decision-making processes. Working as a team through some of the more difficult rare cases to find a diagnosis. – Lisa

I find ultrasound fascinating because you can use your experience and different techniques to directly help people and have a positive impact on their lives. – Jason

Synergy Radiology Strathfield 

I feel fulfilled by this career and job satisfaction.

There are challenges that I need to overcome every day as Sonography is a lifelong learning case by case. And these are the merits that made me choose this occupation more than 17 years ago. – Tim

Sonographers’ Day is a day to honour and appreciate the dedication and expertise of our sonographers. Through this special celebration, we hope to shed light on the profound impact these professionals have on the healthcare field and, more importantly, on the lives of the patients they serve. We are grateful to have such a passionate and caring team of sonographers, and we look forward to many more years of providing exceptional patient care together. Thank you for joining us in celebrating Sonographers’ Day!

If you are interested in learning about Sonographer opportunities at Synergy Radiology, please contact [email protected].