Ultrasound Imaging Service — Types, Clinical Uses & How to Get a Provider Order
This page explains diagnostic ultrasound as a service — the types of ultrasound studies available, when ultrasound is appropriate vs. other imaging, and how Diagnostic Orders Direct helps patients obtain a provider order without an in-person referral. To place your ultrasound order request, use the Ultrasound Order Online page.
Orders are not guaranteed. Issued only when medically appropriate per provider judgment.
This page explains the service and what to expect.
To request a provider order online, visit the Ultrasound Order Online page — designed specifically for placing your order request.
Who This Is For
Patients who want to understand ultrasound before requesting a provider order
Patients seeking abdominal, pelvic, thyroid, vascular, or soft tissue ultrasound
Patients who found a cash-pay ultrasound facility and need to understand the order process
Patients without a current PCP or specialist referral
Patients monitoring known conditions (e.g., gallstones, ovarian cysts, thyroid nodules)
Patients in one of DOD's 30 licensed service-area states
How It Works
Submit Your Request
Complete a brief online intake with your symptoms, history, and the study you are requesting.
Provider Reviews
A licensed provider reviews your request, medical history, symptoms, and any prior imaging or relevant labs.
Order Issued if Appropriate
If medically appropriate, an order is issued. You may take it to the imaging center or lab of your choice, subject to facility acceptance.
Pricing
The $40 fee covers the virtual provider consultation only. Imaging center, lab, radiologist, contrast, facility, and insurance fees are separate and vary by facility. Diagnostic Orders Direct is not affiliated with any imaging center or lab.
What the Provider Reviews
Current symptoms, location, and duration
Relevant medical history and prior diagnoses
Prior ultrasound or imaging results, if available
Indication appropriateness for ultrasound vs. alternative modalities
Pelvic ultrasound considerations — transabdominal vs. transvaginal options
Vascular ultrasound indications — peripheral arterial or venous studies
Red flags that may require urgent or emergency evaluation
Whether the requested body part and study type are clinically appropriate
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a diagnostic ultrasound and when is it used?
Diagnostic ultrasound uses sound waves to produce real-time images of internal structures without radiation. It is commonly used for abdominal pain, gallbladder and kidney evaluation, thyroid nodules, pelvic conditions, pregnancy-related evaluation, and vascular assessments.
What types of ultrasound studies are available?
Common ultrasound types include abdominal (gallbladder, liver, kidneys, spleen), pelvic (uterus, ovaries), thyroid, soft tissue, breast, vascular (Doppler, venous/arterial), renal, and scrotal. The provider determines the appropriate study based on your symptoms.
How is ultrasound different from MRI or CT?
Ultrasound uses no radiation and no magnetic fields, making it safe for most patients including pregnant women. It is less detailed than MRI for deep soft tissue but excellent for fluid-filled structures, real-time guidance, and vascular flow assessment.
Can I get an ultrasound order without an in-person visit?
Yes. A licensed provider reviews your intake, symptoms, and history virtually. If medically appropriate, an ultrasound order may be issued.
Is the ultrasound order guaranteed?
No. Orders are issued only when medically appropriate as determined by the licensed provider.
What types of ultrasound can be ordered through DOD?
Common ultrasound orders include abdominal, pelvic, thyroid, soft tissue, and vascular studies. The provider determines the most appropriate study based on your clinical presentation.
Educational Resources
Ultrasound vs. MRI vs. CT
Ultrasound is radiation-free and ideal for real-time imaging of fluid structures, gallbladder, kidneys, thyroid, pelvic organs, and vascular flow. MRI provides more detailed soft tissue contrast. CT is best for bones and acute injury. Ultrasound is often the first-line study for abdominal and pelvic symptoms.
Learn MorePreparing for an Ultrasound
Preparation varies by study type. Abdominal ultrasounds typically require fasting for 4–6 hours. Pelvic ultrasounds may require a full bladder for transabdominal imaging. Thyroid and vascular studies generally require no special preparation.
Vascular Ultrasound (Doppler)
Vascular ultrasound evaluates blood flow in arteries and veins. It is used to detect deep vein thrombosis (DVT), peripheral arterial disease, varicose veins, and carotid artery stenosis. DOD providers can order venous Doppler and arterial studies when clinically indicated.
Learn MoreRelated Diagnostic Services
Patients also search for and may benefit from these related imaging and lab services:
Ultrasound Order Online
Place your ultrasound order request here
Abdominal Ultrasound Education
Learn about abdominal ultrasound
Pelvic Ultrasound Education
Learn about pelvic ultrasound
Thyroid Ultrasound Education
Learn about thyroid ultrasound
MRI Service Overview
Compare with MRI imaging
CT Scan Service Overview
Compare with CT imaging
Browse our complete diagnostic services list for more options.
More Resources & Services
Why Choose Diagnostic Orders Direct?
- Licensed Medical Providers — All consultations by licensed medical providers, not AI
- 10-Minute Consultation — Quick provider review and order issuance
- HIPAA-Compliant — Encrypted, secure telehealth platform
- 5.0★ Rating — Top-rated by patients
- Available in 30+ States — Licensed nationwide
Ready to Get Started?
Questions before booking? Call or text (702) 588-3455 or email Customerservice@diagnosticordersdirect.com.
Start Virtual Consult — $406550 S Pecos Rd STE B#110, Las Vegas, NV 89120, United States
Diagnostic Orders Direct provides virtual provider review for diagnostic imaging, EKG, and laboratory order requests when medically appropriate. Orders are not guaranteed and are subject to licensed provider judgment. Not an imaging center, lab, or emergency service. Do not use for emergency symptoms. Call 911 for emergencies.