Sleepy Eye Medical Center is now offering coronary calcium scans, a simple and painless way to learn more about your heart health.
This quick CT scan checks for calcium (plaque) in the arteries of your heart. Results are given as a “calcium score,” which helps show your risk of developing heart disease—the leading cause of death in the U.S. Knowing your score can help you and your provider take important steps to protect your heart before problems develop.
A coronary calcium scan may be recommended for adults with risk factors such as:
- Family history of heart disease
- High blood pressure or cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Being overweight or obese
The scan takes approximately 15 minutes, requires no preparation, and involves no IV or contrast dye. Results are reviewed by a radiologist and shared with your provider within a few business days.
The cost is $100, payable at the time of your appointment. Insurance typically does not cover this screening, but Health Savings Accounts (HSA), Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), or Health Reimbursement Accounts (HRA) may be used.
A provider referral is required at SEMC. Talk with your healthcare provider to see if a coronary calcium scan is right for you.
Taking small steps now, like learning your calcium score, can make a big difference in protecting your heart for the future.