OCOM Imaging in Oklahoma City: Diagnostic Imaging and Orthopedic Care Under One Roof

OCOM Imaging is a dedicated outpatient medical facility in Oklahoma City that combines diagnostic imaging services with orthopedic specialty care, operating as part of the Oklahoma Center for Orthopedic & Multi-Specialty Health (OCOM). Unlike standalone imaging centers or hospital radiology departments, OCOM Imaging integrates MRI, CT, ultrasound, and X-ray equipment with on-site orthopedic physicians, allowing patients to move from imaging directly to consultation or treatment planning without external referrals.

What OCOM Imaging Actually Is

OCOM Imaging functions as a specialty medical center rather than a general diagnostic facility. The center houses advanced imaging equipment alongside OCOM's orthopedic physicians, rheumatologists, and other specialists. This structure means imaging results are reviewed by specialists on-site, which reduces delays common in settings where radiologists and treating doctors work separately. The facility operates on a scheduled-appointment model only; walk-in imaging is not available. Most patients arrive through physician referral, though direct self-referral for certain services may be possible depending on insurance coverage.

Imaging Services and Typical Costs

OCOM Imaging provides MRI, CT scans, ultrasound (including musculoskeletal), X-ray, and image-guided injections. Specific pricing varies by insurance plan and procedure type. Uninsured or self-pay patients should expect MRI scans to range from $1,500 to $2,500, CT from $800 to $1,500, and standard X-rays from $150 to $400, though these figures differ based on the region scanned and imaging complexity. Verify exact costs with OCOM's billing department before scheduling, as out-of-pocket responsibility depends on your plan's deductible and copay structure.

Image-guided injections (cortisone, platelet-rich plasma, or others) are billed separately from imaging and typically run $300 to $800 depending on the procedure and injectable used. Insurance often covers diagnostic imaging and medically necessary injections, but cosmetic or elective procedures may not.

How OCOM Imaging Compares Locally

Oklahoma City has several imaging options: hospital-based radiology departments (OU Medical Center, Mercy Oklahoma City, Integris Health facilities), independent freestanding imaging centers (such as Imaging Center of Oklahoma), and smaller specialty imaging practices. OCOM Imaging's key advantage is the integration of imaging with on-site orthopedic specialists, which streamlines care for joint, spine, and musculoskeletal conditions. If you need imaging only and have no follow-up with an OCOM specialist, a freestanding imaging center often processes scans faster and may offer evening or weekend hours that OCOM does not. Hospital radiology departments typically handle complex cases, trauma, and patients with serious medical comorbidities; they are also the standard choice if your referring physician requires hospital-affiliated imaging.

Choose OCOM Imaging if your primary need is orthopedic or musculoskeletal imaging combined with specialist evaluation. Choose a standalone center if you need imaging alone, want flexible scheduling, or are referred by a non-orthopedic physician. Choose hospital radiology if your case is acute, involves trauma, or requires coordination with emergency or inpatient care.

Who OCOM Imaging Suits and Does Not Suit

OCOM Imaging works well for patients with joint pain, spine conditions, sports injuries, or arthritis who are already seeing an orthopedic or rheumatologic physician at OCOM or who are being referred by a primary care doctor specifically for orthopedic workup. The integrated model reduces the number of appointments and simplifies result communication.

OCOM Imaging is less practical for patients who need imaging unrelated to orthopedics (chest X-rays for respiratory concerns, abdominal CT for digestive issues), for those without orthopedic concerns, or for patients whose primary physician is not familiar with OCOM and prefers their own imaging partner. It is also not ideal if you require same-day or emergency imaging; scheduled centers do not serve acute cases.

What the First Visit Involves

Once your appointment is scheduled, arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to complete or update registration. You will be asked about metal implants, claustrophobia, pregnancy, kidney function (if a contrast agent is needed), and allergies. For MRI, you will change into a hospital gown and remove all metal objects. The scan itself takes 15 to 45 minutes depending on the area and type. If the imaging includes an injection (such as a steroid injection guided by ultrasound or fluoroscopy), the procedure occurs during or after the diagnostic scan and involves mild sedation or local numbing. Results are typically available within one to three business days; your referring physician receives a report, and you may also receive a copy. Many patients schedule a follow-up appointment with the OCOM specialist to review images and plan treatment at the same visit.

Hours, Parking, and Logistics

OCOM Imaging operates Monday through Friday during standard business hours; verify current hours by contacting the facility, as scheduling can shift seasonally. Weekend and evening imaging are not available. Parking is located on-site or in the adjacent OCOM complex; no payment is required. The facility is accessible by car and is located in the central part of Oklahoma City, making it convenient for most residents. Public transit access is limited, so driving is recommended. Allow 60 to 90 minutes total for a typical imaging visit, including registration, scan, and any specialist consultation if scheduled the same day.

OCOM Imaging fills a specific gap in Oklahoma City's diagnostic landscape by pairing advanced imaging with immediate specialist input, reducing the friction of separate imaging and physician visits for orthopedic and musculoskeletal concerns.