GET THE FAQS!

HEALTH SCAN IMAGING was founded in 2002 as a center for excellence that combines the world’s most advanced CT and MRI scanning technology with recognized professional expertise of our fellowship-trained radiologists - doctors committed to the exacting science of early disease detection.  Part of our commitment to you is to also provide ready access to up-to-date easy-to-understand plain-spoken medical information about early disease detection and prevention. 

Our easy-to-use menu delivers the facts!   Simply click and choose what you need.  If you cannot find what you are looking for or you have additional questions, call our staff (760. 674.8800) or ask Dr. Kelly.

HealthScan Quickies Index

Why should I consider an early detection HealthScan?

If you are a self-informed adult who has already gained knowledge about your chances of having to deal with potentially significant future diseases that might otherwise interfere with your plans for a longevity, you are probably already familiar with many risk factors, nutrition and lifestyle issues, genetics and other considerations that contribute toward your total risk exposure. 

Part of an accurate overall assessment is to obtain the most detailed information possible about your internal organ systems.  This knowledge would idealy include disclosure of any evidence of active early disease that is not yet symptomatic, and aging changes or degenerative changes that may be accelerated for your age. 

HEALTH SCAN IMAGING differs from other outpatient imaging centers in that we are organized specifically to provide ultra-fast, super-sensitive imaging directly to our clients without a need for a prescription or physician referral.  We are your window of opportunity for early detection.


Is there any special preparation required?

Our HeartScan cardiac calcium score, lung scan and full body health scans require no preparation.   There are no needles, no injections and no fasting.  During a telephone interview or upon your arrival, you will be asked to provide standard background information including medical history, demographic data and information about your lifestyle habits.

What should I wear for my examination? 

Regular street clothes are just fine for a HealthScan screening CT scan.  You will not be asked to change clothes or get into a gown.  For an MRI,  plain street clothes are also fine,  provided there is no metal. You will be asked to place your watch, jewelery and purse or wallet into a secure locker during an MRI.  

How long does a typical examination take?

Following registration and completion of your questionnaire, you will be escorted to our resource center where the basics of our examination procedure will be reviewed with you by our medical staff,  using pictures and models.  You will then soon enter the scanning suite. 

CT scan examinations, such as cardiac calcium score, lung scan and whole body scan take only a few seconds and are accomplished during a single breath hold, once you are positioned on the padded table.  MRI scans last 10 to 30 minutes, depending upon the complexity of the examination and the number of anatomical segments to be studied. 

After your scan, you will then have a private consultation with one of our radiologists who will review your scan results with you.  Both a printed report and a CD of your images will be provided for you to take home or give to other medical professionals of your choosing.  Plan to spend a total of approximately one hour at HEALTH SCAN IMAGING on the day of your test. 

Are HealthScans painful or uncomfortable?

You will feel nothing during a HealthScan screening examination.  Again, there are no needles or injections.  You will only be asked to hold your breath for approximately 10 to 20 seconds.  Our CT and MRI exam tables are padded and quite comfortable.  The entire environment has been designed with your comfort and relaxation in mind.  Claustrophobia is simply not a problem.

We invite you to “take a look” at our facilities through our website-based virtual tour or, stop by and visit our office anytime at Country Club and Portola in Palm Desert.  A member of our staff will be happy to give you a complimentary preview tour.

 
What do HealthScan screening examinations cost?

At HEALTH SCAN IMAGING we are committed to providing the most sensitive and accurate early detection exams available anywhere, using the world’s most advanced technology.  We are also committed to making our exams affordable to all of our clients.  Discounts are available to patients undergoing multiple exams.  Group rates are also available for additional family members or employees of businesses contacted with HEALTH SCAN IMAGING.  Our fee schedule for screening exams is:

How do I schedule a HealthScan examination? 

Simply call 760.674.8800.   If you would like to request an examination via E-mail, simply click here.   We will call you, answer any questions, and arrange your appointment.

Do health insurance companies pay for early detection HealthScans?

Most health insurance companies currently do not pay for early detection screening examinations in patients without symptoms.   However, many insurers will reimburse for an examination if you are referred by a doctor because of certain risk factors or signs or symptoms that you may be experiencing.   HEALTH SCAN IMAGING will be pleased to provide you with an insurance submittal form that you can use to request reimbursement from your insurer.

How can I pay for a HealthScan examination?

HEALTH SCAN IMAGING accepts major credit cards, personal checks or cash.  Payment is expected at the time of your examination.

What exactly happens during a multislice CT scan?

Not much that you will notice.  You simply lie on our padded table.  Your technologist will give you breathing instructions.  While you are holding your breath, the table you are lying on will move steadily through a large doughnut while 16 hidden “cameras” inside the doughnut rapidly take synchronized pictures of your organ systems while you are “passing by”.   One pass and its over.  

What happens during an MRI scan?

An MRI is accomplished in a private room, similar to CT.  While undergoing an MRI, you are also lying on a padded table.  The table slides into a large and somewhat longer “doughnut”.  You will hear a rhythmic tapping sound during image acquisition sessions of 2 to 5 minutes.  The tapping sound is made by smaller magnets rapidly being turned on and off.  

During an MRI scan, harmless, invisible and painless radio waves are being transmitted through the opening of the magnet.  Your body,  in response,  actually emits faint radio wave signals.  It is the collection of these radio waves, picked-up by antennas contained inside the magnet bore,  that ultimately compose the details of your MRI pictures.  

You will be provided ear plugs if desired and a friend or family member may sit in the room at your side.  Our MRI suite is configured with six  large panoramic windows.  Music is provided (via ear phones) while you are in the magnet.  You may wish to bring your favorite CD along on the day of your exam.

Are there any circumstances that might prevent me from having an MRI?

Our next-generation ultra-short bore high field MRI provides a very relaxing environment that greatly diminishes any chances of claustrophobia.  However, if you become anxious, conscious sedation can be utilized.  Alternatively, you may consider scheduling your MRI at our affiliated facility, Truly OPEN MRI, which is configured with a state-of-the-art “clam shell” MRI unit that utilizes high field strength gradient magnets.  This magnet is “open on all four sides” and is almost invariably welcomed as a relaxing environment for patients who are otherwise prone to claustrophobia or anxiety.  

There are several conditions that may potentially preclude performing an MRI.  For instance, if you have certain implanted devices such as a cardiac pacemaker, cochlear implants, an automatic internal cardiac defibrillator, or certain brain aneurysm clips, you would not be a suitable candidate for MRI.  This is because the magnetic field could potentially interfere with these devices.  For this reason, every patient scheduled for an MRI fills out a safety questionnaire prior to entering the MRI environment.  HEALTH SCAN IMAGING maintains an exhaustive reference file as well as access to internet data bases for identification of any and all implanted devices that may potentially contraindicate MRI.  

Who will interpret my examination?

A specially-trained radiologist will interpret the results of your exam and prepare a formal report.  HEALTH SCAN IMAGING is the only regional screening facility or outpatient diagnostic imaging center that exclusively utilizes Board Certified Fellowship-trained radiologists. 

A radiologist is a medical doctor who has undergone a minimum of five years of post graduate medical education following completion of medical school.  This five year curriculum is focused on all aspects of medical imaging including physics, safety, image interpretation and performance of various procedures.  In addition, each of our radiologists has completed two additional years of subspecialty fellowship training in MRI and CT scanning at university medical centers.  Each is also a certified neuroradiologist.