Online CT scan referrals from Sesame
A Computed Tomography (CT) scan, also known as a CT scan, is a diagnostic medical test that uses x-rays and computer processing to create detailed images of the inside of the body.
Providers on Sesame who offer video diagnostic imaging consults can give you a referral for imaging near you. Imaging consults are quick and convenient visits that help determine what type of scan is right for you. If the provider determines that you need a CT scan, they will write you a referral that you can send to your insurer and a imaging center near you.
If you are uninsured, call your local imaging center to see if they require a referral. If they don't, you can book a visit through them. If they do, providers on Sesame can write a referral for you.
How CT scan referrals on Sesame work
An online CT scan referral appointment on Sesame allows you the opportunity to speak with a provider about any concerns you have that may require imaging. Providers will talk through your symptoms and worries with you. They may also ask about your medical history.
If they determine that medical imaging is required to diagnose your symptoms, they will write a referral for you to get the appropriate scan or study. You can use this referral to book a visit at an imaging center near you. This referral will also help qualify your imaging for insurance coverage.
Note that an online CT scan referral visit is not the same thing as booking an imaging appointment. You will not get diagnostic imaging during your referral visit.
Why you should get a referral
CT scans are a vital part of diagnosing health conditions that occur within the body.
Most insurance companies require CT scan referrals from a licensed healthcare provider. Some imaging labs also require a referral before you can book an appointment. A referral validates the scan's necessity for the patient's health. If you're insured, a referral helps ensure that some or all of your imaging is covered. If you're not insured, a referral can be used to book an appointment.
Getting a referral in-person can be tricky, as some primary care providers require you to book an appointment (even if it's just for a referral) weeks in advance.
Online CT scan referrals on Sesame let you talk to a healthcare provider right away. No need to book an appointment weeks out. Talk to a provider and get your referral within the day, if necessary.
Conditions you can get a referral for
CT scans are noninvasive diagnostic tools used by healthcare providers to get a look inside the body without cutting it open. These scans are used to diagnose a wide range of conditions.
Healthcare providers may use a CT scan to check for conditions such as:
Bone and Muscle Disorders: CT scans can identify fractures, tumors, or infections in the bones. They can also measure bone density for detecting osteoporosis.
Cancers: CT scans are often used to detect various types of cancers by showing the size, location, and extent of the tumor. They are also used in planning radiation therapy, guiding biopsies and surgeries, and monitoring response to cancer treatment.
Heart Disease: CT scans can detect calcium deposits in coronary arteries that can narrow the arteries and increase the risk of heart attack. They can also be used to evaluate the results of coronary artery bypass grafting and other cardiac surgeries.
Lung Conditions: CT scans can detect conditions like pneumonia, tuberculosis, emphysema, interstitial lung diseases, and lung cancer.
Vascular Diseases: CT scans can identify diseases and conditions like pulmonary embolism (clots in lung arteries), aortic aneurysms, and narrowing or occlusion of blood vessels.
Trauma: CT scans are often performed in emergency situations when damage to organs like the liver, spleen, kidneys, or other internal organs is suspected after an injury or trauma.
Infectious Diseases, Inflammatory Conditions and Other Internal Disorders: CT can be helpful in diagnosing pancreatitis, appendicitis, diverticulitis, abscesses and other inflammatory or infectious conditions. It can also visualize all parts of the body, across all types of tissues, and can be used to determine the cause of unexplained pain, dizziness or shortness of breath.
Neurological Conditions: CT scans can be used to quickly visualize strokes, brain injuries, and skull fractures, as well as to detect bleeding in the brain (especially in emergency situations).
Symptoms of conditions like these may not be detected during a physical examination. Because of this, CT scans are critical tools in detecting and diagnosing potentially life-threatening health conditions.
Note that this is not a complete list of all medical conditions that a CT scan can be used to diagnose. The decision to write a referral for diagnostic imaging is at the discretion of the healthcare provider. Even if your condition is not listed above, you may still receive a referral for it during an online CT scan referral visit on Sesame.
