Heart Screening Provides Answers For Patients

8/1/2023

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the U.S., but many people show no symptoms. Certain screening tests like a cardiac CT calcium scoring can help to detect heart disease and provide patients with the time to improve their health outcomes.

A cardiac CT calcium scoring is a common test that utilizes a noninvasive CT scan to provide information about whether calcified plaque is in the coronary arteries—the vessels that supply oxygen-containing blood to the heart muscle. Allen Sheely, M.D., primary care physician at Merit Health Medical Group in Brandon, recommends the test to his at-risk patients because it helps establish whether they have coronary artery disease (CAD) or not; allowing for proper treatment.

“Much like a mammogram can detect the early signs of breast cancer, the cardiac CT calcium scoring can identify early signs of heart disease — even when a patient exhibits no symptoms.” says Dr. Sheely. “It’s why early detection is the best protection. These screenings can be an important part of heart disease prevention.”

Earlier this year, Merit Health River Oaks in Flowood launched a cardiac CT calcium scoring for $99 and several of Dr. Sheely’s patients have already benefitted from it.

“I am thrilled to have this resource available to my patients that need it. The cardiac providers at Merit Health River Oaks can detect and diagnose heart disease from the earliest stages, when it can be treated most effectively,” said Dr. Sheely.

Screenings are available by appointment only and can be scheduled by calling (601) 936-2394, then choose option 4.

For more information about Merit Health Heart and services, click here.

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