Understanding Coronary Calcium Scan Cost: What to Expect, Insurance, and Value
Learn how much a coronary calcium scan costs, factors that influence pricing, insurance considerations, and whether it’s the right test for you.
Coronary Calcium Scan Cost: What You Need to Know
A coronary calcium scan, also known as a coronary artery calcium (CAC) scan or cardiac CT for calcium scoring, is a simple imaging test that can estimate your risk of heart disease. Understanding the cost, insurance coverage, and value of this test can help you make informed decisions about your heart health.
What Is a Coronary Calcium Scan?
A coronary calcium scan uses computed tomography (CT) technology to detect the buildup of calcified plaque in the arteries that supply blood to your heart. The amount of calcium is measured and reported as a numeric score, which helps estimate your risk of developing coronary artery disease or experiencing a heart attack.
- Non-invasive and quick test (about 5–10 minutes)
- Requires no injections or dyes
- Uses a small amount of radiation (less than many other common imaging tests)
- Helpful for people with intermediate or uncertain risk of heart disease
How Much Does a Coronary Calcium Scan Cost?
The cost of a coronary calcium scan can range from $100 to $400. The average out-of-pocket cost is typically between $100 and $150, though costs can vary by location and facility. In some instances, the price may be less than $100 or more than $400, depending on the center and region.
| Location | Imaging Center/Hospital | Sample Cost ($USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Baltimore area | Johns Hopkins Medical Imaging | $100–$150 |
| Chicago area | Northwestern Medicine | $100–$150 |
| Columbus, Indiana | Columbus Regional Health | $49 (promo) |
| Dayton, Ohio | Kettering Health | $99–$130 |
| Massachusetts | Tufts Medicine | $100–$200 |
| New Jersey | Hackensack Meridian Health | $99–$150 |
| St. Louis area | St. Louis Heart & Vascular | $99 |
| Nationwide | Life Guard Imaging | $150–$400 |
Key Factors That Affect Cost
- Geographic location: Urban centers or high-cost-of-living regions may have higher prices.
- Hospital vs. Imaging center: Standalone imaging centers may offer lower, flat-rate prices for self-pay patients.
- Promotions/Special events: Some centers offer discounts during awareness campaigns (ex: Heart Month in February).
- Follow-up appointments: Additional charges may apply for follow-up reviews with a provider.
Does Insurance Cover a Coronary Calcium Scan?
Most insurance plans, including Medicare, do not cover routine CAC scans when used for preventive screening. Exceptions may exist if a physician deems the scan medically necessary, but this is not the norm. As a result, most patients pay for the test out-of-pocket.
- Private insurance: Often excludes CAC scans except in select circumstances
- Medicare: Does not routinely cover the test for asymptomatic patients
- Medicaid: Coverage varies by state and is uncommon
- Discount programs: Some hospitals and imaging centers run cash-pay or promotional rates for those without coverage
What others are reading
Before scheduling, always confirm costs, payment options, and potential coverage with your provider, insurance company, and the imaging facility.
Who Should Consider a Coronary Calcium Scan?
The value of a coronary calcium scan is greatest for people with an intermediate or unclear risk of heart disease. This test may be recommended if:
- You are aged 40–75 and do not already have a diagnosis of coronary artery disease
- Your doctor is unsure about starting statin therapy or other preventive medications
- You have risk factors for heart disease, such as:
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Family history of early heart disease
- Diabetes or prediabetes
- Smoking history
- Obesity or metabolic syndrome
- You want a clear assessment of your short-term risk for heart attack
A CAC scan is not helpful for people who:
- Already have diagnosed heart or vascular disease
- Are at very high or very low risk (the test typically won’t change management)
- Are pregnant or may be pregnant due to the small but present radiation exposure
What Happens During the Scan?
The coronary calcium scan is a straightforward, outpatient procedure. Here’s what to expect:
- Preparation: No special preparation is needed; you may be asked to avoid caffeine beforehand.
- Test process: You’ll lie on your back while the CT scanner takes detailed images of your heart (test duration: about 5–10 minutes).
- Painless: No injections or dyes are used.
- Radiation exposure: Equivalent to a few chest X-rays—typically safe, but you should inform the technician if you might be pregnant.
After the scan, a specialist analyzes the images and calculates your coronary artery calcium score, usually reported within a few days.
How to Interpret Your Calcium Score
The result of your CAC scan is a calcium score, which quantifies the amount of calcified plaque in your coronary arteries. This numeric score helps guide your or your doctor’s decisions regarding prevention and treatment.
| Score Range | Plaque Level | Risk of Heart Disease | Next Steps |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | None detectable | Very low | No treatment needed beyond basic lifestyle habits |
| 1–10 | Minimal | Low | Focus on prevention; healthy lifestyle |
| 11–100 | Some present | Moderate | Lifestyle change, possibly medication (discuss with your doctor) |
| 101–400 | Moderate to significant | Medium to high | Consider medical treatment and regular follow-up |
| 401 or higher | High (extensive) | High | Further testing and treatment are necessary |
Note: Even a score of 0 does not guarantee you are completely free of heart disease risk if you have other significant risk factors. Results are one part of your total risk assessment and should be interpreted with your clinician.
Benefits and Limitations of Coronary Calcium Scans
Key Benefits
- Reveals silent heart disease: Detects plaque buildup before symptoms develop
- Helps guide treatment: Can clarify need for statin medication or other interventions
- Motivates healthy change: Seeing results can encourage adherence to healthy habits
- Non-invasive and fast: Minimal preparation and no downtime
Limitations and Considerations
- Incidental findings: The scan can occasionally reveal unrelated abnormalities that require follow-up
- Radiation exposure: Small, but not zero; generally considered safe for most adults
- Not for everyone: Not useful for people with known heart disease or very low/high risk individuals
- No direct treatment: Only provides information; it does not treat or cure heart disease
Is a Coronary Calcium Scan Worth the Cost?
For individuals with an uncertain risk profile, or when there is indecision on starting preventive treatment (like statins), a CAC scan can provide clarity that guides long-term health decisions. Although insurance coverage is rare, the cost is comparatively low for the information provided—especially if purchased during promotional events or at lower-cost imaging centers.
- The American Heart Association and other professional groups suggest the scan can be especially valuable for adults aged 40–75 with intermediate risk factors but no prior heart disease diagnosis.
- If your risk is already high—or already low—the scan may not change your management plan and may not be needed.
How to Save Money on a Coronary Calcium Scan
- Shop around: Get quotes from multiple hospitals and imaging centers in your area.
- Look for discounts: Some providers offer special rates during Heart Month (February) and other health awareness campaigns.
- Ask your doctor: They may know about facilities that offer lower pricing or reduced rates for self-pay patients.
- Request cash-pay offers: Sometimes prices are lower if you pay upfront without going through insurance billing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is a CAC scan the same as a cardiac CT angiogram?
No. A CAC scan detects calcium in the heart arteries, while a CT angiogram requires contrast dye and is used to evaluate blood flow and detect blockages. A calcium scan does not involve contrast or images of blood vessels.
Can I get a coronary calcium scan without a referral?
This depends on the imaging center and your local laws. Many centers allow self-referred scans, but some require a doctor’s order. Always check with your chosen facility before scheduling.
Does insurance ever cover the test?
Most insurance plans—including original Medicare—do not routinely cover preventive CAC scans. Some exceptions exist for patients with specific symptoms or risk factors. Always confirm with your insurer before scheduling.
Is the test safe?
Yes, for most adults. The test uses a low dose of radiation and is non-invasive. However, it is generally avoided in people who are pregnant or may be pregnant.
How often should I repeat the test?
There is no universally accepted schedule for repeat CAC scans. Discuss with your healthcare provider if and when a follow-up scan is appropriate based on your risk profile and results.
Q: What if my calcium score is high?
A: A high score suggests significant atherosclerosis and higher risk. Your doctor may recommend medication (such as statins), lifestyle changes, and possibly other heart tests depending on your risk factors and symptoms.
Key Takeaways
- The average out-of-pocket cost for a coronary calcium scan is $100–$150, but can range from $49 (with promotions) up to $400.
- Insurance coverage is rare, so most people pay cash for the test.
- The scan is quick, non-invasive, and may help clarify your risk if you are in the intermediate risk group for heart disease.
- Careful comparison shopping and asking about discounts can help you find affordable options.
- Always consult your doctor to determine whether the test is right for you, and how the results might affect your long-term heart health plan.
When to Talk With Your Doctor
If you have risk factors for heart disease and are interested in understanding your heart health more precisely, ask your healthcare provider about whether a coronary calcium scan (CAC score) is appropriate for you. Your provider can also help you interpret the results and develop a plan to reduce your risk for future heart issues.
Sources and Further Reading
- American Heart Association: Understanding Coronary Calcium Tests
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute: Heart and Vascular Tests
- Consult your local imaging centers or hospitals for current pricing
- Speak directly with your healthcare provider regarding your unique risk profile
References
- https://www.goodrx.com/health-topic/heart/coronary-artery-calcium-scan-cost
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/coronary-calcium-scan
- https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/should-i-get-a-calcium-score
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10265314/
- https://www.healthline.com/health/heart-disease/coronary-calcium-score
- https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/do-you-need-a-calcium-scan
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack/cac-test
Similar Articles
Read full bio of Sneha Tete
