What is Cardiac Imaging?
Cardiac imaging encompasses a range of non-invasive tests that are used to create detailed pictures of the heart. These tests help doctors accurately diagnose heart conditions, assess heart function, and monitor ongoing treatments. Common types of cardiac imaging include echocardiograms (ultrasound of the heart), CT scans, and MRIs. Each test provides vital information, such as how well your heart is pumping or if there are blockages in your arteries.
Our Cardiac Imaging Services
Calcium Scoring
Non-invasive quantification of the calcified plaque within the pipes supplying blood to the heart.
CT Coronary Angiogram
Non-invasive assessment of calcified and non-calcified plaques (and the amount of narrowing) within the pipes supplying blood to the heart.
Cardiac MRI​
Allows for accurate assessment of the hearts structure and function.
Why Book Cardiac Radiology with GXU?
At GXU we are cardiac imaging nerds. With a passion for radiology, we’re dedicated to the best quality imaging to ensure accurate and precise reports. This is why we use the latest and most advanced Siemens CT and MRI (3T MAGNETOM Prisma) along with the latest in contrast injector technology, ensuring low contrast and radiation doses and excellent image quality.
If you choose to have a MRI at GXU you’ll have access to cardiac imaging sequences that are only available at a few sites in the world, all supervised by an on site cardiac radiologist and registered nurse. These scans are then reported by a subspecialty trained radiologist and cardiologists ensuring the most accurate diagnosis.
Still unsure? Here’s why GXU is one of the leading radiology clinics in the city of Maitland and Newcastle.
All our cardiac imaging is supervised by a radiologist with subspecialty training in cardiac imaging, holding Level B Cardiac CT certification and Cardiac MRI accreditation. This ensures you receive the highest quality care and accurate results.
We prioritise your comfort and understanding throughout the entire process. From efficient booking to providing detailed information about your procedure, we make sure you're fully informed. For example, prior to any Coronary CT Angiography (CTCA), patients receive a video recorded by our radiologist explaining the entire procedure.
Our clinic in Thornton offers easy access and ample free onsite parking, making your visit as hassle-free as possible.
We offer bulk-billed CT examinations for specialist referrals. If your request is not eligible for a Medicare rebate, you'll find our private pricing to be the most competitive in Newcastle.
Our highly trained team has over 25 years of experience across various radiology modalities. With this extensive experience, we'll guide you through the entire process, helping to reduce any anxiety.
We're here when you need us most, offering timely appointments for urgent examinations to ensure prompt diagnosis and care.
Where we Operate our Cardiac Radiology
Cardiac CT procedures are performed at our Thornton practice, conveniently located in the Thornton Healthcare complex just 10 minutes from Maitland. Due to the specialist nature of our cardiac service, we frequently have patients travelling from as far as Taree, Old Bar and the Central Coast.Â
Our cardiac MRI service is located in the heart of Newcastle at the Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) behind John Hunter Hospital. Free, separate, on site parking is available, or for local patients wishing to walk or catch public transport, direct access is via the Skybridge.
Cardiac Radiology Cost
As we aim to keep our services as accessible as possible, we bulk bill CT Coronary Angiograms (CTCA) with a specialist referral and valid Medicare card.
A CTCA or CT Calcium Score referred from a GP is unfortunately not covered under Medicare, however we endeavour to keep our fees reasonable. For GP-referred CTCA, there is a fee of $350 (which includes calcium scoring) and for a CT Calcium Score only the fee is $100.
Our cardiac MRI utilises the most advanced Siemens 3T scanner, utilises cardiac imaging sequences that are only available at a few sites in the world and are reported by a subspecialty trained radiologist and cardiologists. The fee for this highly valued service is $500.
What Our Customers Say
Book an Appointment
As some cardiac imaging requires preparation, an appointment will need to be booked with our friendly reception team. We can often provide next-day appointments, so to book in, please pop in to our clinic or call us on 02 4999 6499.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take?
The duration of your appointment depends on the type of study you are having. For example, a calcium score scan takes approximately 10 minutes, while a cardiac MRI can take around 40 minutes. Although 40 minutes may seem lengthy, most people tolerate the procedure without any issues.
When will my results be available?
Once your cardiac imaging has been completed, the images are reviewed by our subspeciality trained radiologist or cardiologists. A report is dictated, transcribed and verified before being sent to your referring doctor. By now, your doctor will have both the images and report available, which all up can take a couple of days. To review your results, please make a follow-up appointment with your referring doctor.Â
