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IMAGING & DIAGNOSTICS
Same-Day Ultrasound in Lakewood
Getting an ultrasound usually means a referral, a phone tree, and a two-week wait. At ContinuEM it can happen the same day: evaluated, scanned, and read by an ER-trained doctor, often in a single visit.
*Ultrasound availability is based on clinical evaluation, medical necessity, availability, and insurance eligibility.
What Is an Ultrasound?
An ultrasound (sonogram) uses sound waves, not radiation, to create live, moving images of the inside of your body. Because it shows organs and blood flow in real time, it’s often the fastest way to find the cause of pain or swelling. It’s also the safest option during pregnancy and for children.
When You Might Need an Ultrasound
Our doctors order an ultrasound when your symptoms need a real-time look:
- Abdominal pain that could point to gallstones, appendicitis, or kidney and liver concerns
- Pelvic pain from ovarian cysts or other gynecologic concerns (OB/GYN services)
- Leg pain or swelling, where we check for blood clots (DVT)
- Lumps, swelling, or fluid under the skin or in soft tissue
- Testicular or groin pain, which needs same-day evaluation
- Pregnancy-related concerns, where radiation-free imaging is the safe choice
If a doctor elsewhere ordered an ultrasound and booked you weeks out, call us or book a same-day appointment; we can scan you sooner.
What to Expect During Your Ultrasound
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A conductive gel goes on the skin over the area we’re scanning, helping the sound waves travel.
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A handheld probe (transducer) glides over the area.
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Images appear on the monitor in real time.
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Our doctors review the images on site and go over the results with you.
Ultrasound vs. X-Ray vs. CT
| Scan | Ultrasound | X-Ray | CT Scan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Organs, blood flow, soft tissue | Broken bones, chest congestion | Internal bleeding, complex fractures |
| Radiation | None | Low dose | Low dose |
| Speed | 15-30 minutes | Minutes | Minutes |
Not sure which you need? Our doctors choose the right imaging after your exam, and all of it is on site: X-Ray · CT Scan · MRI · Everything We Image
Why Get Your Ultrasound at ContinuEM
ER-level imaging at an urgent care
Same-visit imaging and results, at a fraction of the ER cost
No radiation, so it’s safe for pregnancy and kids
Open until 11 PM weekdays, 6 PM weekends
$99 upfront fee; most insurance accepted
Minutes from Long Beach, Cerritos, and Bellflower
FAQ
Ultrasound FAQs
Usually, yes. Book a same-day appointment or call ahead; our doctor evaluates you first, and if an ultrasound is medically necessary, we can typically perform it during that same visit. No outside referral needed.
You pay a $99 upfront service fee, and the remaining balance is billed to your insurance. Paying cash? Call (562) 731-3990 for flat self-pay rates. See Insurance & Pricing.
It depends on the scan. For urgent, same-day evaluations, we’ll tell you exactly what’s needed when you book or arrive; most scans need no preparation at all.
Yes. Ultrasound uses sound waves, not radiation, which is why it’s the standard imaging choice during pregnancy. For pregnancy-related concerns, our OB/GYN services team can evaluate you during the same visit.
BY SYMPTOM
Symptoms We Ultrasound
- Abdominal pain
- Pelvic pain
- Leg swelling & possible blood clots
- Lumps & soft-tissue swelling
- Pregnancy concerns
COVERAGE
We’ve Got You Covered
Most in-network and out-of-network insurance accepted. You pay a $99 upfront service fee; the rest is billed to your insurance.
*Exclusions apply for insurance plans without urgent care benefits — see cash payment options.
Medically reviewed by
Written by
ContinuEM Editorial Team
Last updated
July 28, 2026
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for any questions regarding a medical condition. If you’re experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.