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What is a CAC Scan, and Why Does It Matter?
A CAC scan is a specialized, non-invasive CT scan that detects calcium deposits in your coronary arteries. These deposits are an early sign of plaque buildup, which increases your risk of heart attack or stroke—even if you feel perfectly healthy.
You'll get a calcium score which tells you how much plaque is present—and what action you may need to take to reduce your risk. Think of it as a mammogram for your heart.
It’s fast. It’s easy. And it could save your life.
Quick
Just 15 minutes from
start to finish
Simple
No prep. No needles.
No downtime.
Smart
Detects early risk of heart attack or stroke—even if you feel fine
What Your Score Means
Your heart score ranges from 0 to 400+—and each number tells a story
- Score: 0
No visible calcium. This means your risk is low. Keep living heart-healthy and consider retesting in 5–10 years. - Score: 1–99
A small amount of plaque is present. This may indicate early risk. Lifestyle changes are key, and your doctor may recommend starting medications like statins. - Score: 100–299
Moderate plaque buildup means your risk is higher. Your provider may suggest additional testing, medications, and closer monitoring. - Score: 300+
Significant plaque is present, which puts you at high risk for a heart attack or stroke. Medications like statins and aspirin, advanced testing, and a more active prevention plan may be needed.
- Helping you understand your score
- Guiding you toward healthier lifestyle choices
- Connecting you with cardiovascular care if needed
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes HeartCLEAR™ different from other heart screenings?
HeartCLEAR™ stands for Cardiovascular Lifestyle Education, Assessment, and Risk Reduction. It's our proactive screening and prevention program here at Carolina Heart Specialists. More than a scan, HeartCLEAR™ is a full prevention-focused program that connects your results to real next steps, guided by experts at Carolina Heart Specialists.
What happens after I get my score?
Our team reviews your results and shares them to your provider. We help you understand what they mean and guide you to the right next steps, whether that's lifestyle changes, medication, or further testing.
Do I need a referral to schedule?
No referral is required. You can book your HeartCLEAR™ scan directly with us.
Is the scan covered by insurance?
The scan may be covered by some insurance plans, but most patients choose our affordable $99 self-pay option. To schedule, you don’t need insurance or a referral.
Is this test safe?
Yes. The scan uses low-dose radiation similar to a mammogram or dental X-ray.