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Lung Screening, Heart Screening, Body Screening, Screening Images
Why should I have a heart scan for coronary artery calcification?
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the leading cause of heart attack and death for men and women. Chances are you or someone you know is at risk for CAD. People can be unaware of having CAD until they have a serious complication such as a heart attack. Unfortunately, by that time the arteriosclerotic process is relatively advanced and any opportunity for prevention is lost. Early detection of CAD is now possible with a heart scan for coronary artery calcification. This is an x-ray test of your heart using a CT scanner. It is a painless, risk-free test, which determines the presence or absence and the extent of any calcification in the coronary arteries. The amount of calcification in the arteries does correlate to the overall amount of arteriosclerosis. This means that the test can tell you your relative risk for having significant CAD. With this knowledge in hand one can modify lifestyle choices to help prevent or limit the progression of heart disease.
Who should consider a heart scan for coronary artery calcification?
People who are at risk for CAD should consider the scan. Risk factors include smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, family history of heart disease, diabetes, and being overweight.
What does the test entail?
The test is simply a CT scan of your heart. It is painless and performed without needles or contrast dye. The scan takes only a few minutes while your heart rate is being monitored. The only preparation is that we ask you to refrain from coffee or other caffeinated beverages during the morning of your test.
What results should I expect?
The images of the heart are analyzed and the total amount of calcification is determined. The value obtained corresponds to your risk category of having significant coronary artery disease. These results are sent to you and your physician so appropriate measures can be initiated if necessary.
Does insurance cover the cost?
A heart scan for coronary artery calcification is considered a preventive test. Therefore, most insurance carriers including Medicare will not cover the cost at this time.
How can I schedule this test?
Individuals can schedule this test for themselves by calling (414)282-4100. One does not need a physician's order or prescription to obtain the test. A physician to whom a report can be sent is required. Feel free to call or stop by for more information. We are open evenings and weekends for your convenience with easy freeway access and plenty of free parking.
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