Do You Need an X-Ray or MRI After a Car Accident in Oregon?
Not automatically. After a car accident in Oregon, you don’t need an X-ray or MRI before your first chiropractic visit at ProCare. Your chiropractor starts with a consultation and a physical exam. If the findings point to a possible fracture, disc injury or nerve problem, the chiropractor refers you out for an X-ray or MRI. ProCare does not do imaging in-house. Your chiropractor reviews the results with you before a treatment plan is made.
This article covers non-emergency care and is not legal advice. If you think you have a medical emergency, call 911 or go to an emergency room.
What happens at the first visit?
The first visit is a consultation followed by a physical exam. It takes longer than a regular visit, and staff tell you how much time to plan for when you book. ProCare’s first visit and X-ray/MRI referral page describes the process.
- Consultation. You talk about how you were injured, where it hurts, what makes it better or worse, and your health history.
- Exam. Your chiropractor checks your posture, range of motion, muscles and reflexes, along with your spine, joints and nerves.
- Imaging if needed. You get a referral for an X-ray or MRI only when the exam calls for it.
- Your plan. Your chiropractor explains what is causing the pain and sets out a plan. The plan can include adjustments, rehab and massage.
When does the exam lead to an X-ray or MRI referral?
Your chiropractor makes a referral when the exam findings point to a possible fracture, disc injury or nerve problem. If the exam doesn’t raise those concerns, imaging is not an automatic step.
Which test you’re referred for depends on your exam. If you get a referral, ask which test is being ordered and what it is meant to check. Once the results are back, your chiropractor goes over them with you before the treatment plan is made.
Why get checked early, even if you feel fine?
ProCare advises starting care as soon as possible after an accident. Some injuries, such as whiplash, may not hurt right away. An early exam also creates a clear record of your injuries. That record helps your insurer or attorney understand your injuries and treatment.
What should you bring to the first visit?
- Photo ID and your insurance card
- Your claim number, if you have one
- Details of the accident
- A list of your medicines and past injuries
- Any earlier X-rays, MRIs or doctor notes
Does Oregon PIP cover the exam and imaging?
It can, within your policy limits. ProCare describes Oregon Personal Injury Protection (PIP) as no-fault coverage required by law. It pays reasonable and necessary medical expenses regardless of who caused the accident, and ProCare states that it can cover the first chiropractic visit.
- Minimum coverage: at least $15,000 per person. Some policies carry higher limits.
- Time limit: ProCare’s PIP guide says benefits are usually available for up to two years from the date of the accident. Check your policy to confirm.
- Imaging: ProCare’s Oregon PIP guide lists diagnostic imaging (X-rays, MRI) among the medical care PIP typically covers.
Policies differ, so check your own limits. You can also ask your insurer whether an MRI needs approval in advance. ProCare staff check your coverage before treatment and help with the PIP claim.
What if someone else caused the crash?
You don’t need a lawyer to start care. If you have an attorney, ProCare works with them. With your permission, the clinic shares records and billing information with your attorney. ProCare also bills auto insurance, helps with Oregon PIP claims and records your symptoms, findings and progress at each visit. To learn more, see the personal injury chiropractor page.
What is a letter of protection (LOP)?
An LOP is an agreement, usually made through your attorney, that the clinic will be paid from your settlement. ProCare accepts LOP cases. Talk to your attorney about the terms of any LOP and how it fits your claim.
How do you book a first visit?
Walk-ins are not available, so you need to book ahead. On the booking page, leave your name and phone number, then choose the type of injury and a clinic. The clinic calls you back to confirm a time. All four clinics are open Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM.
| Clinic | Address |
|---|---|
| Portland | 10915 SE Stark St, Portland, OR 97216 |
| Keizer | 3785 River Rd N, Keizer, OR 97303 |
| Sherwood | 16771 SW 12th St, Suite E, Sherwood, OR 97140 |
| Hillsboro | 329 SE 3rd Ave, Hillsboro, OR 97123 |
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between PIP and a personal injury claim?
According to ProCare’s PIP guide, PIP is your own no-fault insurance. It pays faster, but the amounts are limited. A personal injury claim is made against the at-fault driver’s insurance and can cover pain and suffering and future medical needs. Some people use both: PIP during active treatment and a personal injury claim after treatment ends. Ask your attorney how this applies to you.
What happens if my PIP limits run out?
ProCare’s PIP guide says that once your PIP limits are exhausted, you may be able to pursue additional compensation through a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver. Discuss your options with an attorney.
