Computerized Tomography (CT)
What We Do
CT scan-Computed Tomography, sometimes called CAT scans, is a diagnostic medical test that, like traditional x-rays, produces multiple images or pictures of the inside of the body. CT takes axial images in the body and uses the computer processing to create cross-sectional images. We perform most CT examinations.
We don't perform:
- Cardiac CTAs
- Colonographies
- Lung cancer screenings
Who We Serve
- Active Duty
- Cadets
- TRICARE Prime
- TRICARE Plus
Getting Care
Call Us Immediately Following Order Placed by Provider
Orders originated from providers at the United States Air Force Academy will automatically go to the booking queue for our clinic. Fort Carson, Peterson and Schriever patients may still receive a CT exam from our clinic as our team has access to all orders in the Colorado Market.
Call us as quickly as possibly once the order has been placed and we will work to accommodate an appointment for you.
If We Can't Accommodate Your CT Exam
If our clinic is unable to accommodate your exam, a message will be immediately sent to your ordering provider that the exam cannot be performed at the military clinic and a referral order is required. Your provider will place a referral order that will be appointed to a network imaging provider.
It will take approximately 3-5 business days for that referral to process (unless it is an urgent referral which will involve a same day coordination with the network provider). Visit www.TRICARE-west.com to access your network provider referral authorization.
If no referral authorization is visible, contact the Access to 10th Medical Group Referral Management to determine whether your referral is still in-progress. Additional information on the referral process is available on the Referral Support Page or via the 10 MDG Referral Guide.
Off-Base Provider Orders
Inform the provider to fax the CT order to our office at 719-333-0507. Contact us once the provider has faxed the order and we will work to accommodate an appointment time for you
At any point in the process, you can reach our clinic direct at 719-333-5171 or use Message My Provider on the MHS GENESIS Patient Portal: USAF Academy Radiology
Exam Preparation
Depending on which part of your body is being scanned, you may be asked to:
- Take off some or all of your clothing and wear a hospital gown
- Remove metal objects, such as a belt, jewelry, dentures and eyeglasses, which might interfere with image results
- Refrain from eating or drinking for a few hours before your scan
Tell The Technologist
- If you are allergic to iodine or other materials.
- If you are pregnant.
- If you are claustrophobic and think you will be unable to lie still while inside the CT scanner.
- If you are diabetic, on Metformin, Glucophage, Glumetza, Fortamet, Riomet, Glucovance, Metaglip, Janumet, PrandiMet, Kombliglyze XR.
Results
Results will be read by a Radiologist within 24 to 48 hours of the exam (unless urgent). Within another 24 to 48 hours, the Radiologist interpretations will be visible on the MHS GENESIS Patient Portal.
To request images/results to be sent to off-base providers, contact Medical Records (719-333-4400) to complete a release of information.
How to Use the MHS GENESIS Patient Portal
Visit our tutorial page that includes screen shots and step-by-step instructions for submitting messages, booking appointments and requesting appointments.
When messaging or searching our clinic, use the name: USAF Academy Radiology.