Ask the Expert: Jefferson Outpatient Imaging
See what experts at Jefferson Outpatient Imaging have to say about the difference between screening and diagnostic imaging.
What is the difference between screening and diagnostic imaging?
The goal of screening imaging is early detection of disease in people with no symptoms. This may include individuals within a certain age or other demographic bracket, or those with a family or genetic history of disease. Examples of screening imaging are: annual screening mammograms, low dose CT lung screening, and DEXA bone density scans. All of these tests are recommended for those who fit specific criteria. Early detection of disease is associated with better general outcomes, making preventative screenings a powerful healthcare tool. These tests are usually shorter in nature and are often covered by insurance.
The goal of screening imaging is early detection of disease in people with no symptoms. This may include individuals within a certain age or other demographic bracket, or those with a family or genetic history of disease. Examples of screening imaging are: annual screening mammograms, low dose CT lung screening, and DEXA bone density scans. All of these tests are recommended for those who fit specific criteria. Early detection of disease is associated with better general outcomes, making preventative screenings a powerful healthcare tool. These tests are usually shorter in nature and are often covered by insurance.
Diagnostic imaging is used to investigate specific symptoms or abnormal findings in the body. Patients experiencing symptoms such as persistent pain, a lump, or an injury, and patients whose preventative test indicated an abnormality, would all receive diagnostic imaging. Examples of diagnostic imaging are diagnostic mammograms, MRI and CT scans, and follow-up ultrasounds. Our imaging facility can help determine cost and insurance coverage when you make a diagnostic imaging appointment.
Talk to your referring provider about whether preventative screening imaging is right for you. Jefferson Outpatient Imaging offers screening mammography, low dose CT lung screening, cardiac CT calcium scoring, CT virtual colonoscopy, and DEXA bone density scans.
