A. Generally, men and women over 30 years of age. A family history of heart disease, cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, chest pain, smoking or a sedentary lifestyle can make the test especially important.

A. The Virtual Physical^TM utilizes a breakthrough in CT technology that is far faster than conventional CT scanners. Its proprietary software rapidly scans the torso, resulting in "stop action" 3-D views of your beating heart, breathing lungs and other "in motion" organs. The system can capture a remarkably clear image every second.

A. Virtual Physical utilizes a Secura CT Scanner from Philips Medical Systems. One of the world's most advanced CT Scanners, it can scan and reconstruct images within one second. It also uses only about one third of the radiation dose required by some other CT systems.

A. Patients typically make payment in full at the time of service. We do accept major credit cards. CareCredit payment plan is also an alternative

A. Patients do not need to disrobe. However, you need to wear non metallic clothing - nothing with zippers, buckles or metal buttons. Often a jogging suit or other casual wear is appropriate. The open environment, and soft lighting add to the pleasant, relaxing environment. Because of the fast scanning technology, the entire Virtual Physical^TM takes only a few minutes.

Q. Do I really want to know what the results will show?

A. While the concept of uncovering disease within ones own body can be intimidating, almost all patients find that the results are simply a guide to better health. Almost all diseases uncovered before symptoms appear can be modified, reversed or cured. Most of us have friends or loved ones who sought medical help after symptoms appeared, only to find out it was too late, or required highly invasive, life-altering treatment. The Virtual Physical^TM gives you the power to intercept a disease before it reaches a devastating stage.

A. Your results will be discussed with you immediately after your exam by one of our Board Certified Radiologists. The Radiologist will provide you with a written report, a CD-ROM of your Virtual Physical^TM, and selected full images from your scan. The report along with your Virtual Physical^TM data base can be sent to your personal physician or designated specialist.

A. Your results are output to a computer screen as stills and as a video of the tour through your body. A CD-Rom (which is yours to keep and share with your physican) contains the video files as well as the still shots. On occasion prints are made of various still and placed into the record.

A. Simply call our office at 410-484-5128 in the Baltimore area or toll free at 1-866-V-PHYSICAL (1-866-874-9742) to set up your Virtual Physical^TM. You can also e-mail us through this web site and we will call you back to schedule an appointment. At that time, you can also ask about a Virtual Colonoscopy as part of your evaluation.