Diagnostic Imaging – Health Assessment
Preventative healthcare is the future… A number of our Medical Providers have expanded the traditional physical health examination to include a full spectrum of health and wellness enhancement opportunities. A personalized health assessment is invaluable when it comes to uncovering undetected medical problems and potential risk factors. In addition to a complete physical exam, a personalized health assessment will help you to target, reduce and eliminate potential health risks, discover potential health problems and promote wellness… an early diagnosis can make all the difference.
Call us at 1-888-974-2470 and start your journey towards a healthier you today!
CT Scans - MRI Scan
Computed tomography (CT) is a sophisticated imaging system that uses a combination of X-rays and computer technology to produce detailed images of any part of the body. During a CT scan, an X-ray beam moves in a circle around a patient, allowing many different views of the body part being examined. A computer then processes the X-ray images to generate cross-sectional pictures (or "slices") of the body part. CT scans are much more detailed than regular X-rays and can detect many conditions that do not show up on other imaging tests.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an advanced medical imaging technique that provides very clear images of internal organs and body tissues without the use of radiation. The MRI unit uses radio waves and a strong magnetic field to produce its images, which appear as highly detailed "slices" of anatomy.
What diseases can you detect with CT and MRI imaging? CT Health Assessment Scans have been designed to test primarily for coronary artery disease, lung cancer and colon cancer.
MRI is an excellent tool for diagnosing diseases of the brain, spine, skeleton, abdomen and soft tissues. It is also effective in assessing the severity and informing the most effective treatment of delicate injuries in bones and softer tissues like muscle and cartilage.
Some examples of the use of an MRI scanner in early detection are:
- Degenerative changes
- Para spinal mass lesions
- Lymphatic system
- Bone alignment
- Free fluid in the abdomen
What is a Virtual Colonoscopy? The Virtual Colonoscopy is a relatively new exam that uses CT scanning to render an interior view of the colon – something that once required an invasive endoscope inserted into the rectum. This minimally invasive test is at least as accurate as the conventional method in detecting clinically significant polyps and masses.
What's the difference between diagnostic imaging and Health Assessment Scans? Diagnostic imaging is tailored to locate abnormalities after you have developed a symptom or your healthcare provider has discovered a problem.
Health Assessment Scans are screening tools designed for the early detection of diseases before they become clinically apparent.
If I book a CT or MRI how should I prepare for my procedure? Most scans require no preparation. For the Virtual Colonoscopy, you must irrigate the colon with laxatives and temporary changes to your diet.
Do I need a doctor's referral? There are two answers to this question.
- Yes, all scans carried out in Canada require a referral from your healthcare provider.
- No, if you are a Canadian travelling outside of Canada, you Do Not need a referral.
How do I schedule an appointment?
To schedule an appointment, please call 306.974.2470 or 1.888.974.2470. For the quickest possible service, requests and referrals should be faxed to our Patient Care Coordinator at 306.974.2472.
Why choose Global Healthcare Connections to book your Diagnostics?
Global Healthcare Connections has a developed network of diagnostic providers, all well respected in their field. Our service providers combine state-of-the-art technology and expert interpretation by fellowship-trained radiologists with the highest quality of patient care.
What happens during the procedure? Each scan lasts only a few minutes. You may have to hold your breath for some of the scanning, but it's otherwise perfectly comfortable and completely painless.
Are the procedures loud? During a CT scan, you will probably hear clicking and whirring noises. During an MRI scan, you'll hear loud knocking sounds. These sounds are normal and should not worry you. Despite the loud noise, the technologist operating the machine will be able to hear you if you have questions or concerns.
Are there size or weight restrictions? Patients whose weight exceeds 300 pounds (136 kg) may be unsuited for an MRI or CT scan.
What is contrast and why might it be required? Depending on the type of scan you need, a contrast medium may be administered to enhance the images of your tissues and organs. If required, contrast material will be given intravenously when you arrive for your scan, or you may be instructed to take it orally several hours before your scan. If your test involves a contrast medium, you may need to fast for a few hours before your exam.
What happens after the procedure? Once the radiologist is certain enough information has been collected, you may leave and go about your normal activities without restriction. For a Health Assessment Scan, the radiologist will sit with you to review your images shortly after your scan.
Who will get my results? Health Assessment Scans: A letter with the results of the scan as well as a copy of your images on CD will be sent directly to you. In addition, a formal medical report will be sent to your referring physician.
How reliable are the procedures? As with most screening procedures, MRI and CT scans are not perfect, nor are they proven to find everything they're looking for. Some abnormalities are too small to find, or they may be hidden near other normal structures. Coronary calcification does not always indicate the exact severity of your coronary artery disease. Diagnostic exams are most beneficial when taken into context of your medical history.
Are there any risks? During a CT scan, you are briefly exposed to radiation, making the risk similar to that of conventional X-rays; however, the valuable information a CT scan provides typically outweighs the associated risks. Be sure to inform your doctor if you're pregnant; he or she may recommend another type of exam to reduce exposure of your fetus to radiation.
If you have asthma or allergies and your CT scan requires a contrast medium, there's a slight risk of allergic reaction. Diabetes, asthma, heart disease, kidney problems or thyroid conditions also increase your risk of a reaction to contrast medium. MRI poses no risk to adults or children as long as standard measures are followed.
Health Assessment
Your Health…Our Executive Health Program. A number of our Medical Providers have expanded the traditional physical health examination to include a full spectrum of health and wellness enhancement opportunities. A personalized health assessment is invaluable in uncovering undetected medical problems and potential risk factors. In addition to a complete physical exam, a personalized health assessment will help you to target, reduce and eliminate potential health risks, discover potential health problems and promote wellness. Depending on your needs, your visit may include:
- Head-to-toe assessment of your overall physical health
- Screening and risk assessment for heart and cardiovascular disease
- Vascular imaging to evaluate your risk of stroke or aneurysm
- Screening and risk assessment for common cancers, including colorectal, lung, prostate (for men) and breast (for women)
- Osteoporosis screening
- Full laboratory studies necessary to obtain a complete profile of major organ systems
