Frequently Asked Questions

I created UnderstandMyScan to help patients better understand the language used in imaging reports. Radiology reports are written primarily for physicians and often contain complex medical terminology that can feel confusing or overwhelming when read on your own.

My goal is to provide clear, patient-friendly explanations that help you better understand your imaging results and feel more informed before speaking with your healthcare provider.

I personally review and explain each report. I am a board-certified radiologist with extensive experience in breast imaging and additional specialized training in neuroradiology.

No. The information provided through this site is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It should not be used as a substitute for medical care, diagnosis, or treatment from your healthcare provider.

No. Your treating healthcare provider knows your full medical history and clinical situation. You should always discuss the results of your imaging studies with your healthcare provider, who can place the findings in the context of your overall care.

The current focus of UnderstandMyScan is breast imaging, including mammograms, breast ultrasound, and breast MRI.

Breast imaging reports often contain unfamiliar medical terminology and can understandably create anxiety or confusion for patients reading them on their own.

In addition to breast imaging, I also have specialized training in neuroradiology, and future educational content may expand into brain and other imaging topics over time

Currently, UnderstandMyScan focuses on imaging of:

• Mammography
• Breast Ultrasound
• Breast MRI
• Adult imaging only (18+): Pediatric imaging reports are not supported

In addition to breast imaging, I also have specialized training in neuroradiology, and future educational content may expand into brain and other imaging topics over time

Please upload your radiology report as a PDF file. Most hospitals and imaging centers allow you to download your report from the patient portal as a PDF.

If your report is in another format, you may need to convert or print it as a PDF before uploading. You can also cut and paste your report directly into the text field.

Reports may contain personal identifying information. UnderstandMyScan treats uploaded reports as confidential and uses them only to generate an educational explanation.

If you prefer, you may remove identifying information before uploading your report, but this is not required.

No. This service explains the written radiology report only. The actual imaging studies are not reviewed.

If your report describes a potentially serious or urgent finding, the most important step is to discuss the results directly with your physician. They can provide medical guidance and determine whether additional evaluation or treatment is necessary.

My goal is to provide most explanations within 24 hours, and many are completed sooner. Because I understand that waiting for answers can be stressful, I make every effort to review reports as promptly as possible. In some cases, turnaround time may be 24–48 hours.

Uploaded reports are used only to generate an explanation. We recommend removing personal identifying information before uploading your report to help protect your privacy.

UnderstandMyScan is designed for adult patients who want help understanding the language in their imaging reports (18+). This site is not for pediatric patients. It is not intended for emergency situations or urgent medical concerns.

If you have symptoms that require immediate medical attention, please contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency care.

Radiology reports are interpreted within the broader context of your medical history, symptoms, physical exam, and other test results. The explanations provided on this site focus only on the language contained in the written radiology report.

Your healthcare provider has access to much more information about your health and may interpret the findings differently based on your overall clinical situation. If there is any difference between the explanation provided here and what your physician has told you, you should always follow the guidance of your physician.