Our Commitment to Safety
We understand concerns about radiation exposure — and we share them. We are leaders in radiation safety and follow the principle of ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable), using the lowest radiation dose necessary to obtain high-quality diagnostic images. Our goal is to maximize the medical benefits of imaging while minimizing risk.
Benefits of Medical Imaging
Medical imaging, including X-rays and CT scans, allows doctors to:
- Diagnose disease
- Guide emergency care (such as stroke or internal bleeding)
- Plan and monitor cancer treatment
- Avoid unnecessary surgery
- Reduce hospital stays
- Guide minimally invasive procedures
Radiology (diagnostic imaging) uses much lower doses of radiation than radiation therapy, which is used to treat cancer.
For more than a century, imaging has transformed medical care and remains one of the most important tools in modern medicine.
Understanding Radiation
We are exposed to small amounts of radiation every day from the sun, soil, and our environment; over the course of months, this natural background radiation is comparable to the amount of ionizing radiation commonly used in diagnostic imaging.
Medical imaging uses controlled, targeted radiation to examine a specific part of the body. The radiation dose from CT and X-ray exams is measured in milliSieverts (mSv) — where 1 mSv represents a tiny fraction of the amount of radiation required for any direct radiation bioeffects.
“Effective dose” helps us to compare this small risk associated with medical radiation exposure to the risks associated with everyday background radiation.
CT Scans & Radiation Risk
A CT (computed tomography) scan is a specialized X-ray that produces detailed cross-sectional images. It is often essential for diagnosing serious or urgent conditions.
While CT scans use radiation, the risk is very small:
- There has never been a proven case of cancer directly caused by a CT scan.
- Risk estimates are based on mathematical models, since there are no documented CT-related cancers.
- Modern CT scanners use significantly lower radiation doses than older machines.
When a CT scan is recommended, the medical benefit almost always far outweighs the very small theoretical risk. In many cases, not performing a needed scan carries the greatest risk.
How We Reduce Radiation Exposure
We take multiple steps to ensure imaging safety:
Choosing the Right Test
Radiologists work closely with referring physicians to select the most appropriate diagnostic study. When possible, we recommend MRI or ultrasound, which do not use ionizing radiation.
Low-Dose CT Protocols
CT settings are adjusted to optimize radiation dose based on:
- Patient age and size
- Body part being imaged
- Clinical indication
Dedicated pediatric protocols further reduce radiation for children.
Advanced Technology
To ensure that only the required amount of radiation dose is used for quality medical imaging, we use:
- Automated dose modulation to lessen dose to thinner body parts
- Image reconstruction software, radiation detectors, and radiation filtration to minimize radiation dose
- Precise beam collimation to prevent irradiation of unintended body parts
- Reduced “tube-on” time
Radiation levels are continuously monitored and compared to national benchmarks.
Quality Control & Oversight
- Routine equipment testing
- Dose tracking after each exam
- Ongoing technologist and physician training
- Oversight by a Radiation Protection Committee
- Accreditation by the American College of Radiology
Special Focus on Pediatric Patients
Children are more sensitive to radiation. Our pediatric radiologists prioritize ultrasound or MRI whenever appropriate. When CT is necessary, specialized low-dose protocols are used.
Common Questions
Should I worry about having a CT scan?
If your doctor recommends it, the benefit of diagnosing or treating a serious condition greatly outweighs the small potential risk.
Are there alternatives?
Sometimes MRI or ultrasound can be used. Your doctor and radiologist will choose the safest and most effective test for your situation.
How do I know I need this scan?
Ask your doctor:
- Why is this test needed?
- Are there alternatives?
- How will the results change my care?
Learn More
Additional information about medical radiation and CT imaging is available at:
Information reviewed and updated March 2026.