It’s the beginning of a new year and New Year’s Resolutions abound so why not add getting a HeartScan as part of your being healthier resolution. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in both men and women, and up to 25 percent of patients with coronary disease don’t have any symptoms.
A HeartScan is a painless screening test detecting calcium buildup inside the blood vessels. And, it is recommended for men ages 35-70 with one risk factor and women 40-70 with one risk factor. For younger men and women the recommendation is to have a HeartScan if you have 2 or more risk factors.
So What Are Some Risk Factors?
- Family history of heart disease
- High or borderline high cholesterol
- High or borderline high blood pressure
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Stress
- Vascular disease
- Overweight or obese
Who Should Not Have a HeartScan?
- Anyone who has already had a heart attack
- Cardiac angioplasty
- Cardiac stent
- Or any type of heart surgery
Will Health Insurance Cover a HeartScan?
Most major health plans consider this test a non-covered service. It is up to the individual to file a claim with the insurance carrier.
Henry County Hospital offers HeartScans for $49. You do not need a physician referral, just call for an appointment – 521-1415. However, it is strongly encouraged to discuss results with your primary care provider.
