why are some doctors/specialist so reluctant to do a ct scan and some will have one done immediately

[Gipper]

money = simple answer

[Hidden in reply to Gipper]

Inclined to agree

[Gordon57]

I blame Shakespeare myself - "CT or not CT, that is the question"

Joking aside, some NHS trusts are cash strapped and consultants are told to cut back on the number of scans performed, which may not always be good for the patient.

Some consultants rely more on scan results than others too, it will confirm or negate their initial diagnosis. Some are better than others at spotting certain conditions and it may be that they don't need a scan if they are sure of the problem. They don't all work to the same script.

[Hidden in reply to Gordon57]

Thanks Gordon the real question is do they even have a script or are they just ad-libbing if so they need to watch Q.I,

[Hidden]

It depends what's wrong with you, eg if you have bronchiectasis a CT scan is an essential part of the diagnosis, whereas COPD can usually be diagnosed with spirometry. A scan might be suggested if your symptoms change suddenly.

I don't agree that it's just down to money. The most important criterion is whether a scan is helpful or necessary. You wouldn't want to be exposed to radiation for no reason.

FF x

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

Thanks FF for the reply I don't know if cost comes into it but when I was first diagnosed I had 2 X-rays and radiation was never mentioned nothing showed up on them but I do think if a scan is asked for it should be made available or some other explanation other than its not required as we know it is copd I Would have liked to have seen just how much damage there is thanks again Davex

[Jo_BLFHelpline British Lung Foundation]

Hi

The need for a CT scan has to outweigh any potential radiation risks, so a CT scan will only be recommended if there is a medical need.

This should not be a money issue, but rather based on medical need.

I hope this helps.

Best Wishes

Jo

[Hidden in reply to Jo_BLFHelpline]

Thanks Jo and to all who replied I found every answer very informative and helpful .Its was just that I read that some people have just been diagnosed with COPD and doctor sent them for ct scan when I was diagnosed 6 years ago and haven't seen specialist until 2 mnths ago because I made a fuss so got to see one still no scan not necessary any how I got to know it is emphysema as all I was told from every one that I had COPD . Anyway I go to have my stem cell therapy on 21st this month see if it does the job .Again thanks for replies I read what people are saying just about every day and can identify with a lot of them. with regards Dave

[momiji in reply to Jo_BLFHelpline]

Hi Jo,

I found your comment on CT scans interesting.

I have bronchiectasis and was diagnosised through a CT scan about 7 years ago. My new consultant insists I have another one as she says she has nothing to look at, so to speak.

I have had two X rays so far - for what reason? I don't know. I am taking all the normal inhalers. She says CT scans are taken every 5 years. I don't see how, with the potential radiation risk involved, that another scan is going to change my treatment.

[Jo_BLFHelpline British Lung Foundation]

Hi Dave

It can seem strange when one person appears to be getting a different service/treatment. Geneally speaking people with COPD are treated by their GP and are not routinely referred to a specialist. Can i ask what stem cell treatment you're having?

Best Wishes

Jo

[Hidden in reply to Jo_BLFHelpline]

Going abroad for treatment for emphysema that is why I needed to know what is exactly wrong with me it would have been nice to have ct scan to compare with later I am paying for it myself .I could be wasting my money but it is my choice and at least I will be the one responsible for wasting it instead of government dept best wishes Dave

[Jo_BLFHelpline British Lung Foundation]

The very best of luck with that - please let us know how you get on!

Cheers

Jo

[Hidden in reply to Jo_BLFHelpline]

Will do wont see any result for about 3 weeks after treatment.Going on holiday to oz in Dec for 3 mnths so you may not hear from me after end of Dec dave

[hufferpuffer]

Dave have a great time downunder!