Plaque inside the arteries of your heart can grow and restrict blood flow to the muscles of the heart. Measuring calcified plaque with a coronary calcium scan may allow your doctor to identify potential coronary artery disease before you have signs and symptoms.
Your doctor will use your test results to determine if you may need medication or lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of heart attack or other heart problems.
Calcium cardiac scoring is not covered by health insurance plans. As such, it is billed as a self-pay exam. American Health Imaging offers Cardiac Scoring for $199. HSA and FSA funds can be used to pay for this exam too.
A cardiac scoring screening CT typically takes less than 15 minutes to complete at American Health Imaging.
The screening test is considered appropriate for men over age 40 or women over age 50 who are at moderate risk for developing heart disease because of factors such as:
• Family or personal history of heart disease
• Past or present tobacco use
• History of high cholesterol, diabetes or high blood pressure
• Overweight or obesity
• High stress levels
• Inactive or sedentary lifestyle
Yes, the calcium cardiac scoring exam must be ordered by your physician.