Navigating Private CT Scans in Calgary: What You Need to Know
A recent inquiry on a Calgary community thread has sparked discussion on accessing private CT scans due to perceived urgency. As wait times for diagnostic imaging stretch in the public system, some residents are considering self-funded options.
Private Scans: Availability and Cost
In Calgary, facilities such as Mayfair Diagnostics, Canada Diagnostic Centres (CDC Calgary), and Beam Radiology provide private CT scans. These services offer expedited appointments but come at a price. For example, Mayfair Diagnostics charges $490 for a single body area, plus $125 for contrast if needed. A referral from a qualified healthcare practitioner is mandatory for these scans.
Balancing Speed and Accessibility
While private options promise quicker access, they are not covered by the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan, raising concerns about equitable access. Proponents argue that private scans can ease public system pressure, but critics warn of a two-tiered system that may divert resources from public care. With average public wait times for CT scans reaching over 26 weeks, the debate on private healthcare's role in Alberta continues to evolve.
