A traditional X-Ray uses electromagnetic radiation to take a two-dimensional image of tissues and structures inside the body. X-Rays are used to detect bone fractures and other types of injuries, pneumonia, calcifications, foreign objects, tumors and other abnormalities, dental and other problems.

North Shore Health has X-Ray imaging available by referral from your local or out of town provider and most often can provide the exam without an appointment during regular business hours. X-Ray imaging is also available 24/7 through our Emergency Department. Call the Imaging Department at 218-387-3268 for more information.

A CT scan uses rotating X-ray machines and combines their images to capture a detailed cross section of your body. It can distinguish between bones, organs, and soft tissues – so providers can pinpoint exactly what might be wrong.

North Shore Health has CT scan services available by referral from your local or out of town provider, as well as 24/7 access through our Emergency Department. Please call the Imaging Department at 218-387-3268 for more information and scheduling.

Read about our new VITREA 3-D Imaging capabilities

Non-emergent CTs and MRIs may require prior authorization from the patient’s insurance; this must be determined and authorization received prior to scheduling an appointment. For more information, please call the Imaging Department at 218-387-3268.

A CT scan is used to evaluate those who are at high risk for lung cancer. Your provider may suggest a lung screening if you are a current or past smoker who is determined to be high risk. A provider referral is required for this screening. For more information or to schedule a lung screening, please call the Imaging Department at 218-387-3268.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce images of internal body parts. They show different information than CT scans, so providers will order them to diagnose more complex issues within the body.

North Shore Health has a mobile imaging service available every other Saturday. Please call the Imaging Department at 218-387-3268 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Non-emergent CTs and MRIs may require prior authorization from the patient’s insurance; this must be determined and authorization received prior to scheduling an appointment. For more information, please call the Imaging Department at 218-387-3268.

Mammograms are considered the best way to catch breast cancer in its earliest, most treatable stage. Beginning at age 40, women at low to moderate risk may choose to receive a routine screening mammogram. Women aged 45-50 are recommended to receive a mammogram annually, and women age 50+ every 1-2 years. North Shore Health’s mammography services are accredited by the American College of Radiology.

We have 3D Tomography capabilities. If you do not have Medicare, please check with your insurance about coverage under your wellness plan. If your current insurance policy has covered 3D screening exam previously, it will continue to do so. If you insurance does not cover the 3D exam, you have the option of receiving a 2D exam, or having a 3D exam and paying the difference.

Women may self-refer for routine breast cancer screening. An order from your provider will be required for all other, non-screening diagnostic exams.  To schedule a mammogram, or for more information, please call the Imaging Department at 218-387-3268.

Mammogram Service Update:

Our Mammography department has adjusted the days that we will do mammograms. We will do at least one day a week and up to three partial days, depending on your need.

The days they are done will vary so that you should be able to find a day that works for you. Some days the first appointment will be 8:00 a.m. and the last at 5:30 p.m.

Please let us know if you are needing an earlier or later time and we will try to make it work. We will also be doing mammograms at least one Saturday afternoon per month.

If you have any questions, concerns or suggestions, please call 218-387-3268.

A Dexascan uses X-rays to measure the density of calcium and other minerals in your bones. It helps your doctor determine if you’re at a greater risk for bone fractures and can identify weakness in your bones before they become a problem. If your doctor suspects you might have osteoporosis, they will order a Dexascan to confirm. Call the Imaging Department at 218-387-3268 to set up an appointment after getting a referral from your provider.

Ultrasounds use sound waves to detect abnormalities. At North Shore Health, we can use them to scan a variety of body parts. We also offer ultrasounds for pregnancies and exams for blood clots. An ultrasound technologist is available two days per week, by appointment only. All exams must be ordered by a provider. After receiving an order, please call the Imaging Department to schedule an exam, at 218-387-3268.

An electrocardiogram (EKG) is one of the simplest and fastest tests used to monitor and evaluate your heart function and check for irregularities in its rhythm. The electrical activity of the heart is recorded using electrodes (small, plastic patches that stick to the skin) that are placed in certain spots on your chest, arms, and legs. The electrodes detect the electrical signals emitted by your heart. No electricity is sent into your body.

North Shore Health offers non-emergent EKG services during our Diagnostic Imaging Department’s regular business hours. All EKGs are read and interpreted by a cardiologist. If you have any questions about this procedure, please call our Imaging Department at 218-387-3268.

Holter and Event monitoring are available through the North Shore Health Imaging Department. Your provider may want you to wear a small, wearable device that continuously keeps track of your heart rhythm for a specified period of time. The device records all of your heartbeats, and your provider uses the information captured on this device to figure out if you have a heart rhythm problem. This type of monitoring requires a provider referral. For more information or to follow up on a provider referral, please call the Imaging Department at 218-387-3268.