Essential CT Package

Computed tomography (CT) is an advanced imaging system that uses a combination of X-rays and computer technology to produce comprehensive images of specific areas of your body. CT scans give a much more detailed picture than regular X-rays and can identify many conditions that may escape detection on other imaging tests.

CT is often ordered when more detail is needed based on results of other studies, when the cause of symptoms is unclear during a physical exam or when an asymptomatic patient has increased risk of certain disease. CT scans can be performed on any part of the body. Low-dose studies are used to screen for certain diseases, such as colon cancer and heart disease.

The Essential Health Assessment package includes a coronary CT angiography and virtual colonoscopy, with contrast, for $1,925. These scans will occur on separate visits.

• A virtual colonoscopy is a minimally invasive computed tomography (CT) scan that produces two- and three-dimensional images of the large intestine (colon), rectum and small intestine. The procedure is used to diagnose colon and bowel disease, including polyps, masses, diverticulosis (pouches in the colon), and cancer. 
• A coronary computed tomography (CT) angiography is a simple, non-invasive method of examining the coronary vessels that supply blood to your heart. This exam is quick and painless with very specific results. Plus, coronary CT angiography requires very little preparation and no recovery time compared to traditional angiography. This exam can discover signs of early or significant heart disease that would be undetectable on other heart imaging tests. It detects both calcified (hard) plaque and noncalcified (soft) plaque. It is these soft plaque deposits, often invisible to standard imaging tools, that are more likely to break away and cause heart attacks or more significant health issues. 

In Calgary, CT exams are provided at our Mayfair Place location as private pay exams and are not covered by Alberta Health Care. We offer a 10% Seniors discount (65+) that can be applied to the total CT exam. Your health spending account or group medical insurance plan may cover the cost of a private CT that is prescribed by a qualified health care practitioner. You will need to check with your plan administrator for coverage details.

Please call us at 1-866-611-2665 if you need to reschedule. Kindly provide 24 hours notice if you are unable to keep your appointment. 

PLEASE NOTE 

• Prior to your appointment, you will receive important instructions describing how to clean your bowel adequately for the CT colonoscopy. A bowel that is not completely clean may mean having to repeat the test. Any remaining stool could also hide serious conditions that may be present. Please read the instructions carefully. 
• This exam takes place over two days. A nurse will call you two days before your coronary CT angiography and provide you with preparation instructions. 
• Please let us know if you have allergies, diabetes, heart or kidney disease, or are on a sodium-restricted diet.

For information on how to prepare, what happens during your exam, etc., please click on the applicable exam:

• Coronary CT angiography
• Virtual colonoscopy