Understanding CT Scans
A CT (computed tomography) Scan creates three-dimensional images of the body. Using x-rays and computers, CT imaging can visualize cross-sections of bones, blood vessels, and soft tissues. CT Scans are similar to an R-Ray but provide much more detailed images.
Like X-Rays, CT Scans result in a low dose of radiation and are not believed to cause any immediate health problems. (Pregnant individuals and children are more sensitive to radiation.) Please read our blog post on X-Rays for more information.
Did you know...
Private CT Scans often offer shorter wait times and advanced imaging capabilities, allowing for quicker diagnosis and treatment planning
Private CT Services available
Detailed Images Of Bones, Soft Tissue & Blood Vessels
Painless, Noninvasive, & Accurate
Why Get A Private CT Scan?
If receiving your CT results is time sensitive, private pay CT allows you to get in sooner for an appointment, typically within 1 to 2 weeks. You will receive a copy of the report and your images. This is especially useful if you plan to go to a specialist or other provider for related procedures.
CAMIS offers CT Scans of the head, facial, temporal bones, sinuses, joints, spine, chest, abdomen and pelvis.
What Is The Cost Of Private-Pay CT?
The cost of a private CT Scan at CAMIS depends on the area of the body being scanned and if contrast imaging is required. Prices start at $450. CT Scans at CAMIS are not covered by Alberta Health Care.
When you pay for your CT Scan you will be provided with a receipt you can use if you have coverage through extended benefit plans or heath spending accounts.
Diagnostic
| Head, Neck, Spine, Bones/Joint | |
| Head | $450.00 |
| Temporal Bones/Internal Auditory Canal | $450.00 |
| Orbits | $450.00 |
| Head, Temporal Bones, and Orbits can be combined at singular pricing | |
| Sinus/ENT Surgical Sinus | $450.00 |
| Facial Bones | $450.00 |
| Neck Soft Tissue | $450.00 |
| Sinus, Facial Bones, and Neck Soft Tissue can be combined at singular pricing | |
| Cervical Spine | $450.00 |
| Thoracic Spine | $450.00 |
| Lumbar Spine | $450.00 |
| SI Joints | $450.00 |
| Pelvis – Bony | $450.00 |
| MSK body part/Extremity | $450.00 |
| Chest, Abdomen, Pelvis | |
| Chest | $450.00 |
| Abdomen | $450.00 |
| Pelvis | $450.00 |
| Abdomen/Pelvis | $600.00 |
| Chest/Abdomen/Pelvis | $850.00 |
| Renal Colic | $600.00 |
| High-Res Chest CT/ILD Chest CT | $550.00 |
| Preventative | |
| Additional Body Parts (per additional area, same day) | $250.00 |
| IV Contrast (if required) | $150.00 |
| Multiphase (includes fee for IV Contrast) | $250.00 |
| Multiphase Exams (includes fee for IV Contrast) | |
| Tinnitus | $950.00 |
| Hematuria/Urography | $850.00 |
| Renal Mass | $850.00 |
| Liver | $850.00 |
| Pancreas | $850.00 |
| Adrenal Mass | $700.00 |
| CT Angiography | |
| CTA COW | $600.00 |
| CTA Carotids | $600.00 |
| CTA COW and Carotids | $950.00 |
*All prices are subject to change without notice
Is It Safe For Me To Have A CT Scan?
CT is a vital tool in modern medicine and all CT Scans involve exposure to radiation. The amount of radiation from a CT Scan is greater than from an x-ray as CT Scans provide detailed anatomic information. The risk of developing cancer from the low levels of radiation provided by medical imaging is not known with certainty. To be as safe as possible it is assumed that exposure to radiation may be associated with a small risk of cancer and imaging should only be performed when the potential benefit of the scan outweighs the risks.
Preparing For Your Appointment
PATIENT PREPARATION
- Inform our CT booking specialist if there is a chance of pregnancy or if you are breastfeeding.
- Wear loose comfortable clothing with no metal or zippers.
- You may be asked to change into a gown For CT Scans without contrast there is no special preparation.
- For contrast CT Scans our CT booking specialist will review all preparation requirements with you.
- Arrive 15 minutes early.
Private Pay (not covered by Alberta Health Care)
Referrals are necessary for all bookings
Exam Duration: 15 – 45 minutes
Common Questions About CT Scans (Private)
What if I am travelling from out of town for my appointment? (Red Deer Only)
We are pleased to offer a preferred hotel rate at the Red Deer Resort & Casino for patients travelling to our Red Deer clinics.
This may be a convenient option if you:
- Are travelling from out of town
- Have multiple exams scheduled on the same day
- Prefer to arrive the day before your appointment
- Have an early morning appointment
Please ask our team about these special rates when booking.
Should I have an MRI instead of a CT Scan?
CT Scans are often preferred for quickly imaging bone injuries, detecting acute bleeding, or for certain chest and abdominal conditions. MRI provides superior detail for soft tissues like the brain, spinal cord, muscles, and ligaments. Your doctor will carefully assess your specific health concern and symptoms to determine which imaging modality is most appropriate and will provide the best diagnostic information for your situation.
What does contrast feel like during a CT Scan?
Yes, it is very common to experience a sensation of warmth spreading throughout your body or a metallic taste in your mouth when the contrast material is injected during a CT Scan. These sensations are normal, brief, and typically subside quickly.
Please inform the technologist if you experience any unexpected or prolonged discomfort.
What are the risks of allergic reaction to CT contrast?
Allergic reactions to CT contrast are uncommon but can happen. People who are allergic to contrast may experience typical allergic symptoms such as itching, hives and sneezing. Very rarely contrast can trigger a life-threatening reaction. You will be asked questions related to allergies at time of booking and prior to your scan. Please let us know if you have had a previous allergy to any type of contrast.
How can I help my child prepare for a CT Scan?
Helping your child prepare for a CT Scan involves explaining the procedure in simple, reassuring terms. Tell them they will lie still on a comfortable bed and that a “camera” will move around them, making some soft whirring noises. You can bring a favourite toy or blanket for comfort.
Keeping them calm and cooperative is key, and our staff are experienced in working with children to make the process as smooth as possible.
Can I get a CT Scan if I have claustrophobia?
CT Scans are generally very quick, with most scans taking only a few minutes, which significantly helps patients manage claustrophobia. The CT scanner is also more open than an MRI. If you have concerns about claustrophobia, please discuss them with our booking staff or a technologist before your scan.
While we do not provide sedation medication, your referring physician may be able to prescribe something to help you relax if they deem it appropriate.
What is the maximum weight for a CT scanner?
Our CT scanner table has a weight limit of 500 pounds (approximately 227 kg). If you have concerns about the weight limit, please discuss them with our booking staff when you schedule your appointment so we can ensure your comfort and safety.
Is a doctor's referral required for a Private CT Scan?
Yes, a valid referral (requisition) from a licensed physician or authorized healthcare provider is absolutely required to book and undergo a private CT Scan. We cannot perform any CT Scan without this documentation.
Do I need a referral from a physician?
Yes, for all exams, a valid referral (requisition) from a licensed physician or nurse practitioner is required. We cannot perform your service without this referral.
Locations
Do you need a CT Scan exam?
Contact our CAMIS Care team to ask questions or to learn more about our services.
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