Frequently Asked Questions About Body Scans
The following questions are those we find most frequently asked by people seeking information on our scanning and screening services. They include general information as well as specifics on what happens the day of your scan. If you have other questions, please don’t hesitate to call us at Pinnacle Radiology: (602) 485-7482.
Are these procedures covered by insurance?
Not usually. Most insurance plans don’t cover scans unless symptoms are apparent before the procedure. Medicare also does not pay for screenings, which are designed to detect diseases before symptoms appear. As payment for scanning services, Pinnacle Radiology accepts cash, debit cards or credit cards (MasterCard, Visa or American Express).
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What is the advantage of screening scans?
Diseases like cancers and aneurysms often go undetected until they produce dramatic and sometimes irreversible problems. Screening scans can detect problems before symptoms occur, providing the opportunity for early intervention.
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What kinds of problems can be detected?
Through our scans and screenings, we are able to detect signs of early heart disease, cancer in its earliest stages, emphysema, carotid artery disease, osteoporosis, leg artery narrowing and abdominal aneurysms.
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How will I know what scans are best for me?
Everyone is different and subject to various risk factors. Visit Who Needs a Scan? to see which scans may be right for you.
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Why doesn’t Pinnacle Radiology offer a full body scan option?
Recent large-scale studies have demonstrated the value of heart scans, lung scans and virtual colonography, and Pinnacle Radiology believes these scans can be important tools in helping patients protect their health. Currently, the evidence is much less compelling for similar scans of the brain, abdomen and pelvis, and the American College of Radiology states there is insufficient evidence to justify the practice of total body CT scanning at this time.
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Is the technology reliable?
Yes. Time and again, early-detection CT technology has been shown capable of spotting potentially serious problems long before symptoms are present. Every procedure is performed by registered technologists and interpreted by our board-certified radiologists.
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How do I make an appointment?
It’s easy! Just pick up the phone and call us at (602) 485-7482. Same-day appointments are often available, and the tests themselves usually take less than 30 minutes. So call now and one of our friendly experts will answer any additional questions you may have.
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Who will perform my exam?
Our screening exams are performed by friendly, knowledgeable registered technologists. After the exam, your results will be interpreted and then read by a physician who specializes in radiology.
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What equipment does Pinnacle use for my CT scan?
Backed by the resources and innovation of John C. Lincoln, we use imaging equipment called "rapid" or "fast CT," which is specially designed to produce amazingly clear pictures of your internal organs. The equipment is called a GE LightSpeed Plus CT.
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What if I have metal implants in my body?
You can still have a scan or screening. In some cases, some larger implants may affect the quality of the image, depending on where the implant is located.
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On the day of your exam:
Where is my exam performed?
Early detection scans and screenings are performed exclusively at our Pinnacle Radiology office located at 18404 N. Tatum Blvd., Suite 103, just south of Union Hills Road in the John C. Lincoln Health Center. (View map)
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How long will my scan take?
CT scans, ultrasounds and blood pressure tests are fast and easy, usually taking in the range of 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the test.
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Enclosed spaces make me nervous. Should I be concerned?
No. Our rapid CT scans do not require you to occupy any enclosed space. In fact, the lights will remain on and you’ll be finished in just a few minutes. With the CT tests, you simply lay on our special scanning bed. Once you feel comfortable, the bed will gently pass through a large “donut” designed to record each image.
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Do I need to prepare for my scan?
No. Other than the Virtual Colonoscopy, described below, our other scans and screenings do not require special advance preparation. You don’t even need to remove your clothes. You may be asked to briefly hold your breath to minimize movement and ensure a clear picture.
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How does the Virtual Colonoscopy compare to traditional colonoscopy?
The Virtual Colonoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure and is especially helpful to persons who are reluctant to have a conventional colonoscopy, yet it has been shown to be very effective in early detection of colon polyps and other problems. Some prep is necessary for the Virtual Colonoscopy. That preparation will be explained fully when you call to make your appointment.
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How quickly will my results become available?
Our radiologist will interpret your test within 24 hours, and a report will be mailed to you within 3 business days. The report will include a recommendation that explains what, if any, additional steps you need to take, such as making an appointment with your doctor. If you wish, we will also send a copy of the report to your doctor.
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What if my radiologist finds a problem?
If the radiologist reports a finding, you will need to meet with your doctor to determine if you need additional tests or treatment. Your doctor may order diagnostic tests to investigate the findings further. Often these tests are imaging procedures that can be done at Pinnacle Radiology, and we will be glad to assist you in scheduling them if your doctor determines that they are needed.
Should you ever need your images for a referral, Pinnacle Radiology will also be happy to provide X-ray images for you to take to a specialist.
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