Dunbar Medical Imaging and Diagnostics
Low cost screening tests are now available.
As of January 1, 2007, Medicare will pay for a one-time ultrasound screening for AAA. The criteria are:
The patient receives a referral from a physician
Has the ultrasound by an authorized Medicare Provider
Has either: a fmily history of AAA, is a man between the age of 65 and 75 who has smoked at lease 100 cigarettes, or has other risk factors
The Medicare deductible is waived, but the co-payment is applicable.
All we have is..time
Vascular Screening
Links for more information
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The Facts
Strokes Kill - Stroke is the 3rd leading killer in the US.
PAD - Peripheral Arterial Disease is hardening of the arteries or atherosclerosis. Some 12 million Americans have PAD.
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms are one of the top 10 killers of white men over the age of 55
What do we mean by the term "screening"?
There are two types of testing:
Diagnostic Testing is a full standardized and approved test that can give an accurate result of disease with all measurements as required by the standards of medical practice
Screening is a limited test that gives you the risk factor for having that disease. With this information, you can have further diagnostic testing if your risk factor indicates that it is necessary.
Who Should Be Screened?
Family history of vascular or heart disease
Smokers
Diabeics
Older than 55
Signs of vascular disease: Pain in legs when resting, shiny/hairless skin,pain in legs in walking or exercising that goes away after a few minutes of rest
Intense back or abdominal pain
Rapid pulse
Nausea and vomiting
Excessive sweating
Shock
What Tests Will Be Performed?
Carotid Artery - Is the artery in your neck for plaque that might cause a stroke
Aorta - for an aneurysm
ABI -Ankle-Brachial Index with pressure cuffs to assess peripheral arterial disease
Phone: 713-529-6850
Email: dunbardiagnostic@aol.com
When will I get the results?
You will receive your results within 24-48 hours. If you would like the results mailed make sure we have your correct address. A formal report signed by the radiologist will be sent to you within 1 week. You can call the next day for a verbal report or we can fax the report to you.
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What do I need to do to prepare for the test?
Caffeine and nicotine are vasocontrictors. To get an accurate reading, please try to refrain from both the day of the study. Take Mylanta or another gas relieving over the counter medication the night before and in the morning. Please do not eat the morning of the exam. You can take your medications.
How long will I be there?
You should plan on being at our office for about 1 hour
