Issues with AT&T customers contacting us. Some AT&T customers are having trouble calling us, "the listed phone number is not in service." Please read more here

Calcium Heart Score FAQ

What is a Calcium Heart Score?

The Calcium Heart Score is the world’s first volume computed system tomography technology. This specialized test is designed to measure the calcium levels in the coronary arteries by rotating a thin x-ray beam around the patient to create a 3-D computer image.

Do any other “Heart Scan” centers utilize the service South Denver Heart Center provides?

At the South Denver Heart Center, we provide a 64-slice Calcium Heart Score and you also meet with a healthcare provider after testing is completed. At our facility, your results are reviewed by an on-site board-certified cardiologist.

Should I have a Calcium Heart Score?

If you are a man between the ages of 35-65 or a woman between 40-70 years old, it is recommended you have a Calcium Heart Score.

What does the Calcium Heart Score measure?

The Calcium Heart Score can accurately measure calcified plaque (a proven marker for heart disease) in the coronary arteries to determine your risk of suffering a heart attack. Calcium Heart Score is the only clinically proven, non-invasive test for the early detection of heart disease.

What about false positives?

There are NO false positive results Calcium Heart Score.

I am claustrophobic so I am worried about a Calcium Heart Score being enclosed?

The Calcium Heart Score has a very open design.

Will you use any needles or dyes?

No. The Calcium Heart Score is completely non-invasive.

Do I have to take my clothes off?

No. You will remain fully clothed during the test. All female patients will be asked to remove their bra if it has an underwire. Sports bras or bras without an underwire are okay to keep on.

How long does the Heart Score test take?

While the actual test alone takes only a minute, the entire process takes about a half hour at the center to complete initial paperwork and review the results following your test with our physicians. If you need to get in and out of the center even quicker, the staff at South Denver Heart Center will do their best to accommodate your request.

How soon will I get my results?

South Denver Heart Center has a staff of 14 board-certified cardiologists and many registered nurses. This enables us to have a registered nurse trained in Calcium Heart Score available to review your results immediately following your heart scan. If the Calcium Heart Score identifies significant disease, a cardiologist will meet with you following your heart scan for a consultation. (This service is provided at no additional charge.)

Do I need to have a referral from my doctor to have a Calcium Heart Score?

No. However, we would like to have the name of your primary care physician at the time of your heart scan so that we may forward your results.

Does insurance cover the Calcium Heart Score?

No. While insurance companies generally pay for disease coverage, most typically don’t pay for prevention.

How much does the test cost?

$99. We accept cash, check, Visa and MasterCard.