Coronary Calcium Scan
A coronary artery scan is a non-invasive CT scan that may predict heart disease before symptoms start.
Plaque can gradually build up over time, and can narrow and restrict the flow of blood in the heart’s arteries. Plaque is made up of fats, cholesterol and calcium, and other substances in the blood vessels.
What is a Calcium Score?
A coronary calcium scan, also known as a heart scan or a calcium score, reveals areas of built-up calcium in the arteries of the heart. These images are graded, or scored, for different levels of risk.
A CT scan is a special X-ray that creates multiple images of deposits in the heart’s blood vessels.
Who should be screened?
Calcium scoring is used to evaluate your risk for heart disease, and may help guide a treatment plan. The greatest benefit is for people at moderate risk.
- Family history of heart disease
- High cholesterol
- High blood pressure
- Smoking
- Lack of physical activity
- Diabetic
- Overweight
- Postmenopausal women
For some, a heart scan does not offer any additional benefit. Ask your doctor if calcium scoring is advisable for you.
How to Schedule a Calcium CT Scan
A physician’s order is not required to have a calcium score performed at BCMH. When you call to schedule, you will be asked for the name of your primary care provider or specialist so results may be shared.
Many insurance companies do not cover calcium scoring. Contact your insurance carrier to learn whether your plan covers a calcium score CT scan. At BCMH, the self-pay, discounted cost is $79, due at time of service.
Call 660-200-2370 to schedule a calcium score CT scan at BCMH Imaging Services.