IF YOUR TEST IS SCHEDULED BEFORE 08:00AM PLEASE USE SIDE DOOR ENTRANCE BY THE CATH LAB AND BE SEATED AND THE TECHNICIAN WOULD COME FOR YOU.

  • This test is not covered by medical insurance, and therefore, you will be required to pay a $99, which is due at the time of service.

If you cannot make your appointment, please call us within 24 hours. Failure to show up for a scheduled appointment will result in a $100.00 fine per appointment slot.

What does a Calcium Score show?

A Calcium Score scan is used to check for the buildup of plaque or calcifications in your coronary arteries.  Calcifications in these arteries are the earliest indicator of coronary artery disease. After considering your age, gender, and cardiac risk factors, your calcium score is a reliable measure of your risk for coronary artery disease.  This test can also help make decisions about how to lower your risk for heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.

Preparation for your test:

  • You may eat, drink, and take your medications as you usually would. No caffeine 6 hours prior to your exam.  We would like to have your heart rate as low as possible so that we can obtain good pictures.
  • Try to wear comfortable clothing and remove all metal and jewelry from the part that is being scanned.  This will include belts, snaps, underwire bras and shirts with decorative beading.
  • If you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant, please inform the technologist before your study, as radiation may be harmful to the unborn fetus.

What happens during the test?

  • You will lay on a table on your back with your arms above your head.
  • Small pads or patches called electrodes will be put on your chest. Wires connect the pads to an ECG (electrocardiogram) machine. The machine records the electrical activity of your heart.
  • The table will then move you through the center of a large donut-shaped scanner.
  • As you move through the scanner, you will need to stay very still, and you will be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds.
  • Most tests only take about 10 minutes.
  • A registered CT Technologist will be taking your images and is trained to keep the radiation dose as low as possible.

What happens after the test?

  • There are no side effects to this test, and you may resume your normal activities.
  • If you have any questions about this test, please call us at 407-894-4880.