Getting the results of a CT scan can be an anxious time for patients. Many patients wonder if their doctor will call them with the results or if they will have to wait until their next appointment. The answer depends on a few key factors.
In general, doctors will call patients with abnormal CT scan results that require prompt attention or changes to the treatment plan. However, for routine scans that come back normal, patients may not get a call and instead have to follow up at their next scheduled visit.
Some of the key questions around getting CT scan results include:
Will my doctor call me with normal CT scan results?
In most cases, no. If your CT scan does not show any issues or abnormalities that require further action, your physician may not call you until your next scheduled appointment. Getting results that are normal and unchanged is good news! But that doesn’t mean they require a phone call.
How will I get my CT scan results if they are normal?
If your CT scan comes back normal, your doctor will typically discuss the results at your next scheduled visit. Normal results may also be communicated through an online patient portal or delivered via mail.
Some practices will let you know test results are available for review rather than providing the full details upfront. You then have to log in or schedule a visit to go over the findings.
When will my doctor call me with CT scan results?
Doctors will call patients to communicate CT scan results that show abnormal findings requiring prompt attention. This may include:
- Findings suspicious for cancer that require referral to a specialist
- Infection or inflammation requiring new medication
- Fracture, bleeding, or injury needing immediate treatment
- Increase in the size of a mass or tumor
Any major changes that impact the treatment plan or require you to have follow-up right away will warrant a phone call. Your doctor may also call to discuss incidental findings that are not immediately serious but need monitoring.
What if my doctor doesn’t call me with results?
If your CT scan was done recently and your doctor hasn’t reached out yet, don’t assume the worst. Give the office a few days to contact you in case they are behind. If it has been over a week, call your doctor’s office and ask about your results. Let them know you have not gotten them yet but are anxious to discuss the findings. They may tell you the results over the phone or ask you to schedule an appointment.
Will I get results faster if the CT scan was ordered urgently?
Possibly. CT scans ordered on an urgent or emergency basis are typically read right away by the radiologist and results communicated quickly to your doctor. However, it still depends on your specific findings and situation. Your doctor will call you promptly about urgent CT scan results that require swift follow-up.
Getting CT Scan Results from Your Doctor
To better understand your chances of getting a call about your CT scan results, it helps to look at some of the possible findings and what they mean:
| CT Scan Finding | Normal or Abnormal? | Will the Doctor Call? |
|---|---|---|
| No masses, blockages, or fluid buildup | Normal | No, unless urgent scan or other issues present |
| Enlarged lymph nodes | Abnormal | Yes, may indicate infection or serious condition |
| Blood clot in lungs | Abnormal | Yes, requires prompt treatment |
| Brain bleeding | Abnormal | Yes, neurological emergency |
| Tumor growth or spread | Abnormal | Yes, doctor will advise on next steps like biopsy or surgery |
| Gallstones | Abnormal | Not always. Depends on severity and symptoms. |
| Osteoarthritis wear and tear | Abnormal | No, unless severe or needing joint replacement |
| Diverticulitis mild inflammation | Abnormal | Not always. Rest/antibiotics often first line treatment. |
As highlighted in the table, abnormalities that require urgent evaluation or changes to the treatment plan are more likely to warrant a phone call from your physician. Findings like infections, blood clots, bleeding, tumors, or fractures need prompt follow-up. Meanwhile, incidental or mild findings may not require an immediate call.
Will I get results faster from an urgent care CT scan?
Possibly. Urgent care centers need to get patients diagnosed and treated promptly. For issues like abdominal pain, chest pain, or injury, the results of CT scans done in urgent care are typically read and communicated faster than routine outpatient scans ordered by your primary doctor or specialist. The urgent care also has to let you know the results so appropriate care can be provided.
However, it still depends on the findings. You may wait a few days or longer for urgent care to call you if the CT scan was inconclusive or showed issues needing specialist input. For life-threatening results, you would know immediately so further care can be expedited.
What system do doctors’ offices use to notify patients?
There are a few main methods doctors’ offices use to notify patients about test results:
- Phone call from doctor, nurse, or medical assistant
- Patient portal message
- Letter mailed to your home
For time-sensitive issues like abnormal CT findings, providers often call directly since it’s the fastest way to speak with you. Mail and patient portals work better for routine notification. Phone calls allow two-way discussion while letters and portals simply provide information.
Waiting for CT Scan Results
The waiting period to receive your CT scan results can feel agonizing, especially if your scan was for potential issues like cancer. Here are some tips for coping while you wait:
Be patient
Give your doctor time to interpret the results and formulate a treatment plan before following up. Unless urgent, this can take a week or more.
Distract yourself
Keep busy with activities you enjoy to prevent excessive worrying. Being productive at work or spending time on hobbies can help the time pass quicker.
Avoid jumping to conclusions
Don’t assume the worst if your doctor hasn’t called right away. Most CT scans come back normal or have incidental findings not immediately concerning. Abnormal results warranting prompt discussion are less likely.
Take care of your mental health
The waiting period can impact your mood and trigger anxiety. Make sure to practice self-care and have a strong support system, including a mental health professional if needed.
Write down questions
Having a list prepared can help the discussion with your doctor be as productive as possible once you do get the results. You won’t forget key questions.
Conclusion
Most patients want to know right away if their CT scan found a major issue needing rapid treatment or follow-up. However, no news isn’t always good news when it comes to radiology tests. Your doctor should contact you about any significantly abnormal results from CT scans requiring prompt action. But in many cases, your physician will discuss routine or normal CT findings at your next visit rather than calling you immediately. While waiting for results can feel agonizing, try to resist urges to panic and instead distract yourself with other aspects of life. Within a week or two, your doctor should be able to go over the results and discuss recommended next steps.