Cleveland Radiology Associates PC in Chattanooga: Diagnostic Imaging with Same-Day and Next-Day Results

Cleveland Radiology Associates PC is a private diagnostic imaging practice serving greater Chattanooga with MRI, CT, X-ray, and ultrasound services. The group operates from a clinic setting and accepts most commercial insurance plans as well as Medicare; patients can access imaging with or without a physician referral. The practice prioritizes turnaround time and coordinates directly with referring doctors, making it a primary choice for urgent diagnostic needs across the region.

What Cleveland Radiology Associates PC actually does

This is an outpatient radiology clinic focused on diagnostic imaging rather than interventional procedures. The practice interprets cross-sectional imaging (MRI and CT scans), projects X-rays and fluoroscopy, and performs real-time ultrasound exams. Radiologists on staff read and report results, which are typically transmitted electronically to the ordering physician within one business day for routine studies and same-day for urgent cases. The practice does not perform biopsies, injections, or other interventional work; those patients are referred elsewhere.

Services and how to access them

Cleveland Radiology Associates PC offers four main imaging modalities:

MRI detects soft-tissue abnormalities in the brain, spine, joints, and organs. Cost runs $800 to $2,500 depending on the area scanned and whether contrast is required. Most scans take 20 to 45 minutes. Insurance typically covers the cost if ordered by a physician; out-of-pocket patients should confirm pricing beforehand.

CT scans image bone, lungs, and abdominal organs with speed and precision. Routine CT costs $400 to $1,200 before insurance. High-resolution or contrast-enhanced scans cost more. Confirm with your insurance whether prior authorization is required; some plans mandate it.

Ultrasound uses sound waves to examine pregnancy, soft tissue, blood vessels, and organs. Pricing ranges from $150 to $500 depending on the area and complexity. This modality has no radiation and requires no contrast.

X-ray and fluoroscopy are the quickest studies, costing $50 to $300 for plain films and $150 to $600 for fluoroscopic guidance. Results are often available within hours.

Patients do not need a standing referral from their doctor to self-refer for most studies, though physician orders accelerate scheduling and ensure proper billing. Walk-in imaging is available for urgent cases such as suspected fractures; call ahead to confirm availability. Most commercial insurers and Medicare are accepted. Medicaid coverage varies by plan; verify before your visit.

How Cleveland Radiology Associates PC compares to other Chattanooga options

Diagnostic imaging in Chattanooga is offered through hospital-based departments (such as those at Erlanger Health and CHI Memorial) and independent practices like Cleveland Radiology Associates PC. Hospital systems prioritize inpatients and emergency cases; outpatient imaging is secondary, leading to longer scheduled appointments and wait times. Independent practices like Cleveland Radiology Associates PC can often book routine studies within three to five business days and offer same-day urgent slots more readily. Hospital systems do offer advanced interventional radiology on-site, including biopsies and catheter procedures; Cleveland Radiology Associates PC refers these cases out. If you need a biopsy or vascular intervention, a hospital radiology department is required. If you need fast scheduling for a routine diagnostic study or prefer a focused clinic setting, Cleveland Radiology Associates PC is typically more accessible.

Who this practice suits and who it does not

This practice works best for patients with an existing physician order, established insurance coverage, or a clear diagnosis being investigated. It is efficient for urgent non-emergency imaging, such as a suspected fracture or follow-up on an abnormal lab result. Patients without insurance or with high-deductible plans should call to discuss cash pricing and payment plans beforehand.

Cleveland Radiology Associates PC is not suited for patients needing biopsies, drain placement, or other interventional procedures; these require hospital facilities and equipment. It is also not the right choice for emergency trauma or acute illness; go directly to an emergency department for life-threatening conditions.

What your first visit involves

Call or use the practice's online scheduler to book an appointment. Provide your name, insurance information, study type, and ordering physician's information. Bring your insurance card and a photo ID. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to complete registration. For MRI, you will be screened for metal implants; inform the technician of any pacemakers, metallic fragments, or claustrophobia. For CT or ultrasound with contrast, the technician may place an IV line. The study itself is painless; you will be positioned on a table and asked to hold still and breathe on command. Results are reported to your doctor within one business day.

Hours, parking, and logistics

The practice is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with limited Saturday hours for urgent cases; call to confirm weekend availability. The clinic has dedicated on-site parking. Public transportation is limited in the area; most patients drive. The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Cleveland Radiology Associates PC fills a genuine gap in Chattanooga's imaging landscape: a private practice that schedules routine diagnostics faster than hospital departments and does so without the overhead of emergency coverage.