Thinking about getting a CT scan at Northwestern Medicine? It's a common and important diagnostic tool, and scheduling one can seem a little daunting at first. But don't worry, we're here to walk you through every step of the way to make the process as smooth as possible. Let's get you ready for your scan!
Step 1: Understanding the Referral – Do You Have One?
This is the absolute first thing you need to consider. For most imaging procedures like CT scans at Northwestern Medicine, a physician's referral is required. This means your doctor needs to determine that a CT scan is medically necessary for your condition and provide an order for it.
What is a Referral? A referral is essentially a doctor's order, or prescription, for a specific medical service. In this case, it specifies the type of CT scan needed (e.g., CT of the abdomen, CT of the chest), the reason for it, and often includes relevant medical history.
Why is it Important? Without a referral, Northwestern Medicine will likely not be able to schedule your CT scan. It ensures that the scan is appropriate for your condition and helps guide the radiologists in interpreting the images.
Action for You: Have you already discussed a CT scan with your doctor? If not, your first step is to schedule an appointment with your primary care physician or specialist. They will evaluate your symptoms and medical history to determine if a CT scan is the right course of action. If they decide it is, they will provide you with the necessary referral.
Step 2: Gathering Your Essential Information
Once you have a referral (or are in the process of getting one), you'll need to gather some key pieces of information to make the scheduling process efficient. Having these ready will save you time and potential frustration.
Your Personal Information:
Full Name: As it appears on your identification.
Date of Birth: For accurate patient identification.
Contact Information: Best phone number and email address for appointment confirmations and communication.
Address: Your current mailing address.
Your Physician's Information:
Referring Physician's Full Name:
Referring Physician's Office Phone Number:
Referring Physician's NPI Number (if you have it): This is a National Provider Identifier, which helps identify your doctor.
Your Insurance Information:
Insurance Company Name:
Policy Number:
Group Number:
Subscriber Name: (If different from yours)
Your Co-pay or Deductible Information: It's always a good idea to understand your financial responsibility beforehand. You might want to call your insurance provider directly to confirm coverage for the CT scan.
The CT Scan Details:
Type of CT Scan: For example, "CT Abdomen and Pelvis with contrast," "CT Chest without contrast," etc. Your doctor's referral will specify this.
Reason for the Scan (Diagnosis Code/ICD-10 Code): Your doctor's office will provide this. It explains why you need the scan and is crucial for insurance billing.
Any Special Instructions from Your Doctor: This could include specific timing, whether contrast is needed, or any pre-scan preparations.
Step 3: Initiating the Scheduling Process
Northwestern Medicine offers a few ways to schedule your CT scan. The most common and efficient method for outpatient imaging is usually by phone.
Sub-heading: Option A: Scheduling by Phone (Recommended)
This is generally the most direct route for scheduling a CT scan at Northwestern Medicine. You'll be able to speak directly with a scheduling coordinator who can answer your questions and find an appointment that works for you.
The Main Scheduling Number: For most outpatient imaging procedures, including CT scans, you can call 312-926-6366. This number connects you to the central scheduling department for Northwestern Medicine.
Alternative Numbers (Specific Locations/Types of Scans):
For CT and MRI specifically at the Northwestern Memorial Hospital Imaging Center, you might also try 312-926-9000.
For other Northwestern Medicine locations outside of the main downtown Chicago campus, you can find specific contact numbers on the Northwestern Medicine website's "Imaging Services" or "Locations" sections.
What to Expect When You Call:
Be Ready with Your Information: Have all the details from Step 2 at hand. This will make the call much smoother.
Referral Verification: The scheduler will likely ask for your referring physician's information to ensure they have the proper order. They may need to contact your doctor's office directly to receive the electronic referral if they don't have it already.
Insurance Verification: They will verify your insurance information. Be prepared to provide policy numbers and group numbers.
Appointment Options: The scheduler will offer you available dates and times for your CT scan at various Northwestern Medicine imaging locations. Be prepared to discuss your preferences for location and timing.
Pre-Scan Instructions: They will provide you with any necessary instructions for your specific CT scan, such as fasting requirements (if contrast is used), medication adjustments, or arrival times. Pay close attention to these! They are crucial for a successful scan.
Confirmation: You will receive a confirmation of your appointment, usually by email or mail, with all the details.
Sub-heading: Option B: Using the MyNM Patient Portal (Limited for CT)
While the MyNM Patient Portal is a fantastic resource for managing your healthcare, directly scheduling a CT scan through the portal might be limited to certain types of preventive scans (like Coronary Calcium Scans or Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screens) or if your doctor has initiated the scheduling process on their end and made it available for you to confirm.
How to Check on MyNM:
Log In: Go to the MyNM website (mynm.nm.org) or use the MyNM app.
Navigate to Appointments: Look for a "Schedule an Appointment" or "Appointments" section.
Explore Options: See if "Imaging" or "CT Scan" is an available option for direct scheduling. If you don't see it, or if it directs you to call, then the phone method (Option A) is likely your best bet.
Benefits of MyNM: Even if you can't schedule the CT scan directly, MyNM will be invaluable after your appointment. You can typically view your upcoming appointment details, receive reminders, and access your CT scan results and reports once they are available.
Step 4: Pre-Scan Preparations
The preparations for your CT scan will vary depending on the type of scan and whether contrast dye is being used. It's crucial to follow all instructions provided by Northwestern Medicine or your referring physician.
Fasting: If your CT scan requires contrast dye (either oral or intravenous), you may be instructed to fast for a certain period before the scan (e.g., not eating or drinking for a few hours).
Medications: Discuss all your medications with your doctor and the scheduling team. Especially inform them if you are taking metformin (a diabetes medication) or have kidney problems, as special instructions or adjustments may be needed if contrast dye is used.
Allergies: Inform the scheduling team and the technologist if you have any allergies, especially to contrast dyes, iodine, or shellfish. They may need to take precautions or administer pre-medications.
Pregnancy: If you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant, you MUST inform your doctor and the imaging center immediately. CT scans involve radiation, and alternative imaging methods may be considered.
Clothing and Jewelry: You will likely be asked to remove any metallic objects, jewelry, or clothing with metal fasteners (like zippers or underwire bras) near the area being scanned. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that is easy to remove if needed.
Contrast Dye (if applicable):
Oral Contrast: You may be given a liquid contrast solution to drink before your scan. This helps highlight certain organs in the digestive system.
Intravenous (IV) Contrast: An IV line will be started in your arm or hand to inject the contrast dye. You might feel a warm flush, a metallic taste in your mouth, or a sensation like you need to urinate, which are all normal. Report any pain, tingling, or unusual discomfort immediately.
Step 5: On the Day of Your CT Scan
Arriving prepared and knowing what to expect will help ease any anxiety.
Arrival Time: Arrive at the imaging center at least 15-30 minutes before your scheduled appointment to allow time for registration and any final preparations.
Check-in: Present your identification, insurance card, and any paperwork you were given.
Changing: You may be asked to change into a hospital gown.
The CT Room: You will lie on a narrow table that slides into the large, circular opening of the CT scanner.
During the Scan:
The technologist will be in an adjacent control room but will be able to see, hear, and speak with you through an intercom system.
You will hear whirring or clicking sounds as the scanner rotates around you. This is normal.
It is crucial to remain very still during the scan. You may be asked to hold your breath for short periods.
You will have a call button to communicate any issues with the technologist.
Duration: A CT scan typically takes anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the area being scanned and whether contrast is used.
Step 6: After Your CT Scan
Once the scan is complete, the technologist will assist you off the table.
IV Removal (if applicable): If you received IV contrast, the IV line will be removed.
Hydration: If you received contrast dye, you will be encouraged to drink plenty of fluids to help flush the dye from your system.
Results: The images from your CT scan will be interpreted by a radiologist, who will then send a report to your referring physician. Your doctor will then discuss the results with you. Results are typically not given to you immediately after the scan. You can usually view your results on the MyNM patient portal once they are released by your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common questions related to scheduling a CT scan at Northwestern Medicine, with quick answers:
How to get a referral for a CT scan at Northwestern Medicine?
You must consult with your primary care physician or specialist who will determine if a CT scan is medically necessary and then provide a referral/order for the scan.
How to contact Northwestern Medicine's scheduling department for a CT scan?
You can contact the main scheduling line for outpatient imaging at Northwestern Medicine by calling 312-926-6366.
How to prepare for a CT scan with contrast at Northwestern Medicine?
You will likely need to fast for a specified period (e.g., a few hours) before the scan. Specific instructions will be provided at the time of scheduling.
How to check if my insurance covers a CT scan at Northwestern Medicine?
Contact your insurance provider directly using the number on your insurance card to confirm coverage, co-pay, and deductible information for imaging services at Northwestern Medicine.
How to access my CT scan results from Northwestern Medicine?
Your CT scan results will typically be sent to your referring physician. You can also usually view them on the MyNM patient portal once your doctor has reviewed and released them.
How to find a Northwestern Medicine imaging location near me for a CT scan?
You can explore the "Locations" or "Imaging Services" sections on the official Northwestern Medicine website (nm.org) to find imaging centers.
How to know if my CT scan at Northwestern Medicine will use contrast dye?
Your referring physician will specify whether contrast dye is needed on your referral. The scheduling team will also inform you of this when you book your appointment.
How to reschedule or cancel a CT scan appointment at Northwestern Medicine?
Call the Northwestern Medicine scheduling department (312-926-6366) as soon as possible to reschedule or cancel your appointment.
How to communicate allergies or medical conditions before my CT scan at Northwestern Medicine?
It is crucial to inform the scheduling team and the technologist on the day of your scan about any allergies (especially to contrast or iodine), kidney problems, or if you are pregnant or might be pregnant.
How to ensure a smooth CT scan experience at Northwestern Medicine?
Have all your personal, physician, and insurance information ready when you call to schedule, follow all pre-scan instructions carefully, and arrive at the facility on time.