Navigating healthcare appointments can sometimes feel like a labyrinth, but scheduling a CT scan at Northwestern Medicine doesn't have to be. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience. So, are you ready to take control of your health journey? Let's get started!
How to Schedule a CT Scan at Northwestern Medicine: A Step-by-Step Guide
A CT (Computed Tomography) scan is a non-invasive imaging test that uses X-rays and a computer to create detailed cross-sectional images of your body. It's a crucial diagnostic tool for various medical conditions, and Northwestern Medicine, with its extensive network and expert staff, is an excellent choice for your procedure.
Step 1: Confirm Your Doctor's Referral and Understand the "Why"
Before you even pick up the phone or open your computer, the absolute first thing you need is a doctor's referral. A CT scan is a diagnostic test that requires a medical professional's order.
Sub-heading: Why a Referral is Essential
It's not just a formality. Your doctor prescribes a CT scan based on your symptoms, medical history, and a clinical assessment. They'll specify the type of CT scan needed (e.g., CT of the abdomen, chest, head, with or without contrast), which is vital for proper scheduling and preparation.
Sub-heading: What to Discuss with Your Doctor
The Reason for the Scan: Understand why your doctor is ordering this specific CT scan. What are they looking for?
Type of CT Scan: Will it involve contrast dye? This is a crucial detail for preparation.
Any Special Instructions: Your doctor might have specific advice based on your medical history, such as medication adjustments or dietary restrictions.
Questions to Ask: Don't hesitate to ask about potential risks, benefits, and what to expect during and after the procedure. Knowledge is empowering!
Step 2: Gather Your Information
Once you have your referral, it's time to collect all the necessary details to make the scheduling process efficient. Having everything on hand will save you time and potential frustration.
Sub-heading: Essential Information to Have Ready
Your Doctor's Order/Referral: This should clearly state the type of CT scan, the reason for it, and any specific instructions.
Your Personal Information:
Full Name (as it appears on your ID)
Date of Birth
Contact Information (phone number, email address)
Current Address
Insurance Information:
Insurance Provider Name
Policy Number
Group Number
Subscriber Name (if different from yours)
Confirm if you need a pre-authorization from your insurance company. Some plans require this before the scan can be performed.
Any Relevant Medical History: Be prepared to briefly discuss any allergies (especially to contrast dye or iodine), kidney problems, diabetes (especially if taking metformin), or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Step 3: Choose Your Scheduling Method
Northwestern Medicine offers a few convenient ways to schedule your CT scan. Choose the method that best suits your preference and urgency.
Sub-heading: Option A: Call to Schedule (Recommended for Most CT Scans)
For most outpatient imaging procedures, including CT scans, calling is often the most direct method. You can speak with a scheduling coordinator who can answer your questions and guide you through the process.
Primary Scheduling Number: The general number for outpatient radiology services at Northwestern Medicine is 312-926-6366.
Specific Numbers:
For CT and MRI specifically, you might try 312-926-9000.
For X-ray and ultrasound, the number is 312-926-0061.
When to Call: Business hours are generally Monday through Friday. Have your information from Step 2 ready!
Be prepared to wait on hold during peak times. Have a comfortable space and your notes ready.
Sub-heading: Option B: MyNM Patient Portal (For Select Scans and Existing Patients)
If you are an existing Northwestern Medicine patient and have access to the MyNM patient portal, you might be able to schedule certain types of CT scans online, particularly preventive ones like coronary calcium scans or abdominal aortic aneurysm screens.
How to Access: Log onto the MyNM website or use the MyNM™ app (available on App Store or Google Play).
Navigation:
On the MyNM website, click "Menu" then "Appointments."
On the MyNM app, select "Appointments."
Click "Schedule an Appointment."
Look for "Preventive Care" and then select the specific scan (e.g., "Coronary Calcium Scan").
Answer the prompted questions and proceed to schedule.
Important Note: For many diagnostic CT scans ordered by your doctor for specific symptoms, direct phone scheduling is usually required to ensure all medical details are captured. Always consult with your primary care physician before scheduling preventive scans.
Step 4: During the Scheduling Call/Online Process
Whether you're speaking to a representative or navigating the portal, pay close attention to the details.
Sub-heading: Key Information to Confirm
Date and Time of Appointment: Double-check this and mark it on your calendar.
Location of the Scan: Northwestern Medicine has multiple imaging centers. Confirm the exact address and building. Some key locations include:
Northwestern Memorial Hospital Imaging Center (Arkes Pavilion, 676 North Saint Clair Street, Chicago)
The Northwestern Medicine Diagnostic Center (Lavin Family Pavilion, 259 East Erie Street, Chicago)
Northwestern Medicine Diagnostic Imaging Old Irving Park (4445 Irving Park Road, Suite 210, Chicago)
Other hospital campuses like Central DuPage Hospital, Lake Forest Hospital, etc.
Preparation Instructions: This is crucial! Ask about any specific instructions regarding:
Fasting: Many CT scans do not require fasting, but if contrast dye is used, you may be instructed not to eat or drink for a certain period before the scan.
Medications: Confirm if you should take your regular medications or if any need to be paused (especially metformin if contrast is used).
Clothing/Jewelry: You'll likely need to remove metal objects and may be given a gown.
Arrival Time: They may ask you to arrive 15-30 minutes early for registration.
What to Bring: Typically, you'll need your photo ID, insurance card, and doctor's order.
Contact Information for Questions: Get a direct number if you have follow-up questions before your appointment.
Cost and Insurance Coverage: While the scheduler may not provide exact costs, you can inquire about typical out-of-pocket expenses or if they can connect you with a financial counselor.
Step 5: Preparing for Your CT Scan
Proper preparation ensures accurate results and a smooth experience on the day of your appointment.
Sub-heading: Pre-Scan Checklist
Review Instructions: Carefully read all instructions provided by Northwestern Medicine. If anything is unclear, call the scheduling department.
Medications: Follow all instructions regarding your medications. If contrast dye is involved and you have kidney problems or are taking metformin, your doctor or the imaging center may give specific guidance.
Diet: Adhere to any fasting instructions. If oral contrast is required, you will be given a liquid to drink a certain time before the scan.
Comfortable Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing that is easy to remove if you need to change into a gown. Avoid clothing with metal zippers or buttons.
Jewelry and Valuables: Leave all jewelry, piercings, and other metal objects at home, as they can interfere with the scan.
Arrive Early: Plan to arrive at least 15-30 minutes before your scheduled appointment time to complete any necessary paperwork and check-in.
Sub-heading: On the Day of Your Scan
Bring your photo ID, insurance card, and doctor's order.
Inform the technologist if you are pregnant or think you might be, or if you have any allergies (especially to contrast dye or iodine).
You will be asked to lie still on a narrow table that slides into the CT scanner. The technologist will be in an adjacent room but can communicate with you through a speaker. You may hear clicking or whirring sounds, which are normal.
Step 6: After Your CT Scan
The hard part is over! Now, it's time to understand what happens next.
Sub-heading: Post-Scan Expectations
Contrast Dye: If you received contrast dye, you'll be encouraged to drink plenty of fluids to help flush it out of your system.
Results: Your CT scan images will be interpreted by a radiologist. The report will then be sent to your referring physician, typically within 24-48 hours. Northwestern Medicine staff are generally restricted by HIPAA laws from discussing results directly with patients.
Follow-Up: Your doctor will discuss the results with you and determine the next steps in your care. Schedule a follow-up appointment with them if you haven't already.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about CT scans at Northwestern Medicine:
How to prepare for a CT scan with contrast?
You will typically be instructed to fast (not eat or drink) for a certain number of hours before the scan. You may also be given an oral liquid contrast to drink, or the contrast will be administered intravenously (IV) during the scan. Inform your doctor and the technologist of any allergies, especially to iodine or previous contrast reactions, and any kidney problems or diabetes (especially if taking metformin).
How to know if my insurance covers a CT scan at Northwestern Medicine?
Contact your insurance provider directly before scheduling your appointment. Provide them with the CPT code for the specific CT scan (your doctor's office can provide this) and the diagnosis code (ICD-10) to confirm coverage, any deductibles, co-pays, or if a pre-authorization is required.
How to get a copy of my CT scan images from Northwestern Medicine?
Northwestern Medicine generally provides a complimentary CD with your images upon request. Allow at least 24 hours for them to prepare it. You can usually request this when you check out or by contacting the imaging department directly. Additional copies may incur a small fee.
How to access my CT scan results on MyNM Patient Portal?
Once your radiologist's report is finalized and sent to your referring physician, it will usually be released to your MyNM Patient Portal. The timing of this release can vary, so check your portal regularly or ask your physician when they expect the results to be available.
How to reschedule or cancel a CT scan appointment at Northwestern Medicine?
To reschedule or cancel, call the scheduling phone number you used to book the appointment (e.g., 312-926-6366). It's important to do so as soon as possible to allow other patients to utilize the open slot.
How to find the nearest Northwestern Medicine imaging center for a CT scan?
You can visit the Northwestern Medicine website (nm.org) and use their "Locations" or "Imaging Services" section to search for facilities near you that offer CT scans. You can also ask the scheduling coordinator during your phone call.
How to ask about the cost of a CT scan at Northwestern Medicine?
When you schedule your appointment, you can inquire about the estimated cost. For more detailed information on billing, insurance, and financial assistance, you can usually contact Northwestern Medicine's billing or patient financial services department.
How to ensure my doctor receives my CT scan results quickly?
Confirm with the scheduling staff that your referring doctor's information is accurate. While results are typically sent within 24-48 hours, you can always follow up with your doctor's office a few days after your scan to ensure they've received and reviewed the report.
How to prepare a child for a CT scan at Northwestern Medicine?
Preparation for children may vary. Northwestern Medicine provides specific guidelines for pediatric imaging, which may include sedation options for very young or anxious children. Discuss this with your child's doctor and the scheduling team. Parents are often allowed to stay with their child during the scan.
How to confirm if I need a CT scan with or without contrast?
This decision is made by your referring physician based on your medical condition and the area of the body being scanned. Your doctor's order will specify if contrast is needed. If you are unsure, always clarify with your doctor before your appointment.
