Cardiac CT calcium score is a specialized CT scan of the heart that measures the calcium buildup in your heart arteries. This crucial information helps determine your risk for cardiovascular disease.

The American College of Cardiology recognizes coronary artery calcification as a critical marker for cardiovascular disease. It helps guide treatment decisions, such as whether cholesterol-lowering statins are necessary. A low or negative calcium score may indicate a reduced need for these medications.

At Kimball Health Services, we are committed to helping you take charge of your heart health. That’s why we offer Cardiac CT calcium score, a simple and efficient scan that takes just 10 minutes and requires no IV or contrast dye.

We offer this test at a flat fee of $165, with payment due at the time of service. Please note that this is a self-pay service, and insurance will not be billed.

A cardiac CT calcium score or coronary calcium scan measures the amount of calcified plaque in the heart arteries. The presence of calcium in your arteries is an indicator of plaque build-up, which can restrict blood flow and increase the risk of heart attacks.

The scan is quick, non-invasive, and painless. After the scan, a radiologist reviews your calcium score and sends it to your doctor. Higher scores indicate a greater risk of heart attack, heart disease, or stroke. A coronary calcium scan can also help detect coronary artery disease before you experience any symptoms.

Your doctor can use this information to set personalized goals for managing cholesterol and blood pressure, reducing your risk of cardiovascular disease.

If you’re at risk for heart disease, this scan can provide valuable information to guide your preventive care plan. The cardiac CT calcium score is recommended for patients over 40 with certain risk factors, including:

• Family history of heart disease
• High cholesterol
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Uncertainty about starting preventive therapies like statins

Scheduling your scan at Kimball Health Services is a simple process that requires coordination with your healthcare provider. Here’s what you need to do:

• Talk to your doctor: Discuss your heart health, risk factors, and whether a calcium score test is right for you.
• Obtain a doctor's order: Your physician will place an order for the test if needed.
• Schedule your exam: Once your doctor has ordered the test, the Kimball Health Services Radiology Department will contact you to schedule a convenient time for your exam.
• Prepare for your exam: Follow the instructions provided by your doctor or our staff to ensure accurate readings.

Preparation for your cardiac CT calcium score is simple and requires minimal effort. Our staff is available to answer any questions and guide you through the process. 

No special preparation is needed before the scan. Here are a few key guidelines to follow:

• Avoid caffeine for 12 hours before your scan
• Take your medications as usual
• If pregnant, consult your doctor first

After the scan, your doctor will review the results with you and help you take the right steps to protect your heart.

Your calcium score could be life-saving. Cardiac CT calcium score provides crucial insights into your cardiovascular health. It can help you and your doctor make informed decisions about your care and potential preventive measures.

At Kimball Health Services, we provide expert cardiology care, including cardiac CT calcium score. As one of the top critical access hospitals in the nation, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality, patient-centered care.

In case of an emergency, call 911 or walk into our emergency department anytime. For more information or to schedule your cardiac CT calcium score, call us at 308-235-1966 or request an appointment online. We're here for you whenever you need us.