What is a calcium score scan?
A calcium score scan, also called a coronary artery calcium (CAC) scan, is a type of CT scan. It uses X-rays to look for calcium in the arteries that supply blood to your heart. Calcium can develop in plaque, a buildup of fats and other substances in artery walls.
A healthcare professional may suggest this scan to help make prevention decisions, such as whether cholesterol-lowering medicine would be useful. It is generally used for people without heart symptoms when the next step in their care is unclear. Whether it would help you depends on your health history and risk factors.
What to ask when you call
Once you find a clinic, these questions can help you confirm the details before booking:
- Do you offer a coronary calcium score CT scan at this location?
- What is the total cash price, including the scan and the doctor’s reading of the images?
- Do I need a doctor’s order, and are there any eligibility requirements?
- How do I book an appointment, and who will explain my results?
If a listing mentions a voucher or special offer, ask what you need to do to get that price.
What does the scan cost?
Prices vary by clinic. Enter your ZIP to see published cash prices near you. If a price isn’t listed, call the clinic for a quote.
A cash price is what you pay directly without billing insurance. Ask what the total includes and whether any special offer or voucher is required. If you plan to use insurance, check coverage with the clinic and your insurer.
Do I need a doctor’s order?
It depends on the clinic. Some let eligible patients book and pay for a calcium scan directly. Others require an order or referral from a healthcare professional. Ask about the clinic’s requirements when you call.
What happens during the scan?
You lie on your back on a table that moves through the CT scanner. Small sticky patches on your chest monitor your heartbeat so the images can be timed correctly. You will be asked to stay still and briefly hold your breath.
The procedure usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes. It uses a low dose of X-ray radiation and does not require injected contrast dye. You can usually return to normal activities afterward. Follow the clinic’s preparation instructions when you schedule.
What does a calcium score mean?
The result is a number that reflects how much calcium the scan found. Higher scores generally mean more calcified, or hardened, plaque and a greater risk of future heart problems.
A score of zero means no calcium was detected. The scan can still miss plaque that has not developed calcium, and it does not show how much an artery is narrowed. A zero score does not rule out all heart disease.
A healthcare professional considers the score alongside your age, cholesterol, blood pressure, smoking history and other risk factors to help you decide on next steps. Ask the clinic who will receive the report and who will discuss it with you.
About this directory
ScanYourHeart brings clinic locations, published cash prices and contact information into one place. You contact the clinic directly to ask questions and arrange your scan.
Published prices come from clinic sources. Checked listings include the review date under “Clinic details.”
If a price, address or phone number is wrong, report a correction.
Medical sources and further reading
The medical explanations above draw on these patient guides. Follow a link for more detail about the test.