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In the current medical landscape, it is not certain that you will get a covered PET scan and or diagnostics in a timely manner. SecondStreet.org released government data showing an additional 15,474 patients in Canada died in 2023-24 before receiving various surgeries or diagnostic scans. This number is said to be incomplete, as several governments provide either partial data, or simply do not track the problem. (This figure does not include Quebec, Alberta, Newfoundland and Labrador and most of Manitoba) - it's pretty shocking and eye opening if you ask me.
My experience has been that swift diagnostics and treatment are the key to having success in battling life threatening illness, like stage 4 breast cancer. My arm broke on March 10th of 2024 and I was able to book a private PET scan before a conversation about a PET scan had even happened with my oncologist. We took the reins and in turn I was able to provide information to my medical team as quickly as possible.
Booking any sort of medical testing, especially a PET scan can often feel like navigating a maze. At Initio Nuclear Medicine the process is as straightforward and stress-free as possible. I wanted to write this blog post to guide you through what to expect when you're booking a PET scan, ensuring you have a clear understanding of what lies ahead. What I have learned.
Understanding the Basics of a PET Scan
A PET/CT scan is a special kind of medical test that helps doctors see inside your body. It uses two machines – a PET scanner and a CT scanner – to take pictures of your insides.
During the test, you’ll lie down on a table that moves through the machines. The PET scanner will create pictures that show how your body is working and where there might be any problems. The CT scanner will create pictures that show what your body looks like.
The pictures from the PET and CT scanners are combined to create a detailed picture of your insides. This can help doctors find out if there are any issues, like tumors or infections, that they need to take care of.
PET/CT scans do involve a small amount of medical radiation. Scanning is performed when the expected benefit outweighs this risk.
Step 1: Booking
Before booking a PET scan at Initio Nuclear Medicine, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider. They will assess your medical history, discuss your symptoms, and determine if a PET scan is appropriate for your situation. The radioactive nature of this type of test is not something that you want to take on lightly for your overall health. This is a consideration you will need to make with physician support. A physician will need to sign your private PET scan requisiton.
INITIO is Western Canada’s only private nuclear medicine facility. With over 20 years experience, offering rapid access to diagnostics and treatment.
You or your doctor can acquire a requisition for a PET scan on the site.
You can also call Initio for support: (604) 678-9274
Booking Your Appointment
Once you have a referral/requisition, the next step is to contact Initio Nuclear Medicine to schedule your appointment.
You can do this by calling their office directly or by email.
info@initiomedical.ca (604) 678-9274
It's essential to ask about any specific preparations or requirements for your PET scan during the booking call.
Preparing for the PET Scan
The total cost of the scan is $999. They accept VISA, Mastercard, Interact and AMEX. A 50% deposit will be collected before your scan in order to secure your appointment.
You may be asked to fast for several hours before the scan, usually for a minimum of six hours. This means no food or drink, apart from water.
Certain medications may also need to be paused in consultation with your healthcare provider. These instructions should be clearly communicated to you when you book your appointment.
Day of the Appointment
Fast 6 hours before the scan. During this time period, plain water is allowed.
Make sure you are informed in terms of how your current medication might or might not affect the exam. This is important for interpreting your scan images. If your medication contains METFORMIN or INSULIN, let the office immediately.
Notify the office if you have had surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, a biopsy or are a diabetic.
Plan to be at the clinic for 3 hours. The scan itself will be ~20 minutes (approximately)
If you are claustrophobic or anxious and require light sedation, please get a prescription from your doctor for an oral sedative, such as Ativan (Lorazepam) to bring with you on the day of your scan. Staff will advise you on how and when to take the medication.
Wear loose, comfortable, warm clothing which does not contain any metal; Avoid wearing jewelry.
Bring your CARE CARD (PHN) for proper identification.
If you are not a Canadian citizen, please bring your Passport or driver's license as identification. You will also be required to sign a Liability Waiver upon arrival.
The PET Scan Procedure
The actual PET scan usually takes around 20 to 60 minutes depending on your specific needs.
You are injected with the radioactive tracer and then you will wait for an hour before being scanned.
During the scan, you will be required to lie still on a sliding table, which will move into the PET scanner. The equipment resembles a large doughnut shape, with a tube that you will pass through.
During this time, you’ll be asked to remain motionless to ensure clear images are captured.
After the Scan
You can eat, drink, and resume your normal activities as usual.
You will be radioactive for 24h after your scan. Most of the radioactivity will dissipate within 8-12h. It is suggested to minimize contact with pregnant women and children under the age of 12 years after injection of the tracer for the 24h span as a precaution.
Arrange a follow-up appointment with your doctor at least 3 business days after your scan date, to discuss your scan results.
If you would like to have a copy of your report and images you are able to request this.
Following the scan, you will generally be monitored for a short period to ensure you feel well before leaving.
Hydration is recommended to support a timely flushing of the radioactive tracer.
Conclusion
Having my PET scans at Initio Nuclear Medicine has been such a comforting and seamless experience for myself. The staff is warm and empathetic and it feels like a real safety net for me, especially after my arm broke and I knew the cancer had spread, but I didn't know how far. The option to step in as a patient and have a level of control has also been a huge comfort for me.
If you're recommended for this procedure, trust that the team at Initio Nuclear Medicine is dedicated to providing personalized care.
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