CT ScannerCoronary Calcium Scoring CT Scan

What is a CT Scan?

Sometimes called a heart scan, or heart CT scan, a computed tomography (CT scan) takes detailed pictures of the blood vessels going to the heart.  These pictures are called "slices.  These pictures show calcium deposits.  After a CT scan is complete, a Radiologist examines the pictures and scores the calcium deposits.  The score is based on how many calcium deposits there are. 

How is a CT Scan performed?

Patients are asked to lie on an exam table.  Technicians put small patches on the upper chest, attached by thin wires to an Electrocardiogram (ECG).  The exam table rises up and slides through a large donut-shaped machine, which is the CT scanner.  The ECG monitors the patient heartbeat, telling the CT scanner when to take pictures, in time with the heartbeat.  The scan is simple, painless, and fast - less than 10 minutes.

Technicians sit behind a window in the scanning room, and talk to the patient during the CT heart scan.  Sometimes, the patient will be asked to hold his/her breath during certain pictures.

Who should have a CT Scan?

This Screen is helpful for adults over the age of 45 concerned about his/her heart risks, including (but not limited to):

  • Family history of hear disease
  • High cholesterol
  • High blood pressure (hypertension)
  • Obesity
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Smoking
  • Diabetes

How do I prepare for a CT Scan?

Upon arrival, patients report to the Radiology Department.  A short questionnaire will be completed, and payment arranged.  Then patients are led to a dressing room and offered a gown.  All clothing with zippers, under wires, metal snaps and/or certain buttons will need to be removed.  Jewelry will also need to be removed. 

Patients should not have caffeine of heave exercise for 12 hours before the CT heart scan.

Is the CT Scan safe?

The radiation exposure during a CT heart scan is very low.  There are no needles or injections involved.  Patients that are pregnant should not have this CT scan. 

Financial Information:

The cost of the CT scan is $220.  Payment is due in full at time of appointment.  Most insurance carriers, including Medicare, do not cover this procedure, even if a doctor orders the Scan. 

Cash and personal checks are accepted as payment.  At this time, we are unable to accept credit or debit cards.  We can provide a receipt for HSA or FSA reimbursement it needed.

The charge includes:

  • The Calcium Scoring CT Scan and ECG
  • A Radiologist report (a Radiologist reads the scan)
  • A compact disc (CD) of the pictures taken during the CT heart scan
  • Written report for both you and your doctor
  • Consultation with a nurse to review your results.

How do I get my CT Scan results, and when?

Patients receive results, including a written report and disc of images, within minutes of finishing the CT heart scan.  The nurse consultation happens immediately after the scan, before leaving.  Physicians are mailed a copy within 2-3 business days.

How do I schedule a CT Scan?

Anyone can have a CT heart Scan done.  Patients do not need a doctor's orders.  ProHealth Care currently offers the Calcium Scoring CT Scan at Oconomowoc Physician Center only.  The number to schedule an appointment is (262) 928-8810.