How to sign up for diagnostic procedures (ultrasound, X-ray, tests)?

Calgary offers a comprehensive diagnostic services system that combines the public health system with private options. Knowing the booking process and available options will help you efficiently obtain the medical tests you need with minimal delays and maximum comfort.

1. General booking principles

1.1. Obtaining a referral (requisition)

• A referral from your family doctor or specialist is required for ultrasounds, MRIs, CT scans, most X-rays, and laboratory tests.
• The referral must include:
• Your full name and Personal Health Number (ULI)
• Type of examination and clinical justification
• Doctor's contact information

1.2. Required documents

• Alberta Health Care card
• Referral from a doctor
• Passport or driver's license
• Private health insurance information (if applicable)

2. Laboratory tests

Alberta Precision Laboratories (APL)

The primary provider of laboratory services in Calgary.

• Appointments:

• Online: albertaprecisionlabs.ca

• Phone (Mon–Fri 7:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.): 1-877-702-4486

• Local (Calgary): 403-770-5136

• Hours (as of April 2025):

• Westwinds, Thorncliffe: Sat 7:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. (by appointment)

• Beddington: Sun 7:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. (by appointment)

Main locations

3. Ultrasound (US)

• Ultrasound is by appointment only.
• Average wait time: ≈ 5 weeks.

Providers

• Alberta Health Care coverage: 2D ultrasound, prenatal and diagnostic.
• Private (not covered): 3D/4D ($100–300), elective pregnancy ultrasounds.

4. X-ray examinations

Walk-in X-rays

Mayfair Diagnostics offers walk-ins at 12 locations.

• South Calgary Health Centre

• Address: next to Urgent Care

• Hours: daily 7:30 a.m.–11 p.m.

• Phone: 1-866-611-2665

• Mayfair Place

• Address: Glenmore Trail & Elbow Drive SW

• Hours: Mon–Sat 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

• Parking: free for 30 minutes

Other providers

5. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Public system (AHS)

• Locations: Foothills MC, Peter Lougheed Centre, Rockyview GH, South Health Campus, Alberta Children’s.
• Waiting time: 6+ months.

Private MRI

• Often covered by private insurance with a referral.

6. Computed tomography (CT)

Public CT

• Foothills MC Special Services: 403-944-1132 (8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.)
• McCaig Tower (emergency): 403-944-1501 (24/7)

Private CT

• Health Assessment packages (Mayfair): Assurance, Premier, Comprehensive.

7. Practical tips

• Plan ahead:

• Laboratory tests – 1–2 weeks

• Ultrasound – 3–5 weeks

• MRI – 4–6+ months

• CT – 2–3 months

• Reducing waiting times:

• Morning/late hours

• Suburban locations

• Waiting list

• Urgent appointments through your doctor

• Preparing for your appointment:

• Follow instructions (fasting, removing metal, etc.)

• Inform about allergies and medications

• Emergencies:

• ER for acute pain, stroke, severe trauma

• Urgent Care Centre (South Calgary HC 8:00–20:00)

8. Getting results

• Lab tests: 1–3 days (usual), up to a week (special)
• X-ray: 1–2 days
• Ultrasound: 3–7 days
• MRI/CT: 1–2 weeks

Where to get it:

• Referring doctor
• Through MyHealth Records (partially)
• Upon request from your provider

9. Contacts and resources

Conclusion:
Effective booking of diagnostic procedures in Calgary requires early planning, combining public and private options, and following referral and preparation instructions. The right approach will ensure quick access to tests with minimal delays and maximum comfort.