If your doctor wants a close look at a certain part of your body, whether it’s your brain, spine, chest, abdomen, bones, or anywhere else, they may order a CT (computed tomography) scan.
How to Schedule an Imaging Study
CHA patients who have an order for imaging - please call 617-665-1298.
External facilities/providers - please fax orders to 617-665-3265 with the following information:
> Authorization status and Prior Authorization number, start and end date
> Ordering Provider NPI, name, address, phone, and fax
> If no authorization is required, please document this on the order
About Your CT Scan
A CT scan is a type of x-ray that creates two- and three-dimensional images of the body. Unlike traditional x-ray, a CT scanner takes pictures in "slices", which gives our doctors a very close look at certain internal organs. This lets us find tumors, nodules, cysts and other abnormalities an X-ray may not be able to show.
During a scan, you lie down on a table that slides into a doughnut-shaped CT machine. This is what takes the pictures. The exam itself may take from seconds to several minutes, but it may take up to 30 minutes to set the test up and position you on the table. While the test is going on, the technologist may ask you to stay still or hold your breath for short periods.