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Calcium Cardiac Scoring Test

Schedule Cardiac Scoring at Touchstone Medical Imaging

A calcium score test can help you and your doctor understand your risk for coronary artery disease (CAD) before any symptoms appear. Also called a cardiac calcium CT scan or cardiac scoring, this simple, noninvasive test uses CT scans to measure calcified plaque in your arteries that can limit or block blood flow to your heart muscles. It helps assess your risk of heart attacks, atherosclerosis and other heart conditions so you can make informed decisions about your health

How It Works

The exam is fast, painless and easy. At Touchstone Medical Imaging, the entire process typically takes less than 15 minutes. You will lie on a narrow table that slides into the center of a large, donut-shaped CT scanner. A technologist will place small, sticky electrodes on your chest to record your heart’s electrical activity, capturing clear, detailed images. During the scan, you will hold your breath for short periods (about 10 to 20 seconds) while the machine takes cross-sectional pictures of your heart. A radiologist will then carefully interpret these images to give your doctor accurate insights.
Middle aged man standing in the kitchen cooking with his partner standing beside him, backlit
Closeup of doctor's hands attaching electrodes on patient's chest
Woman entering CT Machine feet first with the assistance of CT technologist.

Find A Touchstone Imaging center offering Cardiac Scoring appointments near you!

Reasons for Calcium Cardiac Scoring Test

Who benefits from a calcium score test

Your doctor may recommend a calcium score test to detect the presence and extent of coronary artery disease. It is particularly valuable for men over 40 and women over 50 at moderate risk of heart disease to guide treatment decisions, such as starting statin therapy.

Risk factors include:

  • Family or personal history of heart disease
  • Current or past tobacco use
  • High cholesterol, diabetes or high blood pressure
  • Being overweight or obese
  • High stress
  • Inactive or sedentary lifestyle

If you have already experienced a heart attack or coronary bypass surgery, or you have a coronary stent, this test might not be appropriate for you.

Patient Reviews

Our patients say it best. Touchstone Imaging provides welcoming, comforting outpatient facilities with friendly and helpful staff.

Front office staff was extremely friendly and helpful. Technician was absolutely wonderful. Extremely friendly, kept me informed during the entire process of what she was doing and what would be happening next.
Tina J.
I had to take my 11-year-old in for an MRI of his knee. It was one of the best experiences we’ve had at a medical office in a long time. Everyone was friendly, informative, and professional.
Jodi E.
I had to get a brain MRI back in November. The check in process was fast and friendly. I didn’t have to wait long before being taken to the back to get prepped for my procedure. The staff made me feel at ease and the environment is very calming and tranquil. The MRI tech checked on me constantly during the procedure and kept me informed as to which part of the exam we are completing. I can’t remember her name but she was very nice and pleasant. If I ever have to get another diagnostic test, I will be returning here.
Brian V.
Everyone was excellent! I was acknowledged and welcomed when I entered the building. Front staff were professional and courteous when discussing paperwork. Friendly smiles. My technician impressed me as being highly trained in her field. Her personal and professional skills are awesome. Enjoyed something I wasn’t looking forward to.
Evangelina B.
Friendly staff. I called and got an appointment that fit my schedule. Quick check in. Relatively short wait time compared to a lot of medical facilities. The technician was friendly, gave clear instructions and made me feel comfortable. I was out in less than an hour.
Wendy B.
Great place, people, and atmosphere was awesome. The guy that brought me to the back had me laughing the whole way. They checked in on me a few times in the MRI machine to make sure I was doing ok and it made me feel more comfortable. I would recommend this place to anyone needing an MRI done.
Jon C.
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Radiologist giving a patient a brain

Choose accurate imaging and convenient service with Touchstone

Why choose Touchstone Imaging for your calcium score test
● Convenience you can count on. With dozens of locations across six states, Touchstone Imaging offers flexible scheduling with same-day and next-day appointments, including extended and weekend hours.
● A caring atmosphere. Our welcoming facilities and attentive team make you feel comfortable and cared for throughout your visit.
● Expert results you can trust. Fellowship-trained subspecialty radiologists review your images and deliver accurate, clear results to your doctor to help guide your care.
● Transparent, affordable pricing. The calcium score test is a self-pay exam not typically covered by insurance. At Touchstone Imaging, we offer it at a competitive price of $199 and accept FSA, HSA and Care Credit for payment.

Ready to take control of your heart health? Request an appointment for your calcium score test today to learn about your cardiovascular disease risk.

Cardiac Scoring Frequently Asked Questions

What does a coronary calcium scan measure?

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. The scan measures the amount of calcium and calcified plaque inside your coronary arteries.

These calcium deposits can help your doctor identify your potential risk of heart attacks and coronary artery disease. 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.

How much does a cardiac scoring exam cost?

Calcium cardiac scoring is a self-pay exam not covered by health insurance plans. Touchstone Imaging offers the test for $199, and you can use HSA and FSA funds to pay for it.

How long does the cardiac scoring CT take?

A cardiac scoring screening CT typically takes less than 15 minutes to complete at Touchstone Medical Imaging.

Who should get a coronary calcium scan?

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

Does a cardiac scoring exam require a doctor referral?

Yes, the calcium cardiac scoring exam must be ordered by your physician.

What does my calcium score mean?

Your calcium score indicates the level of plaque buildup.

0: No evidence of plaque; very low risk of heart attack in the near future.
1-10: Minimal evidence of plaque.
11-100: Mild evidence of plaque.
101-400: Moderate evidence of plaque.
Over 400: Extensive evidence of plaque, indicating significant coronary artery disease.

Your doctor will use this score to recommend lifestyle changes or medication to help lower your risk.

How do I prepare for a cardiac score test?

No special preparation is generally needed. However, you should avoid caffeine for at least four to 12 hours and refrain from smoking for four hours before your appointment.

Is the amount of radiation from a calcium score test safe?

The radiation level is low, comparable to a mammogram. While all radiation exposure carries a slight risk, the benefit of early and accurate detection of heart disease far outweighs it.

*Some or all of the health care providers performing services at Touchstone Imaging are independent contractors and are not Touchstone’s agents or employees. Independent contractors are responsible for their own actions, and Touchstone shall not be liable for the acts or omissions of any such independent contractors.