Is it possibe to get a cat scan without a dr requesting it?

I have been having severe pain just below my ribs for over 5 months now and the dr is saying it is related to my acid reflux, I think it is a separate issue. I can feel lumps in the area. If I sit up or stand for any lengh of time the pressure and pain make me lean over to get relief.

Many facilities offer "whole body" CT scanning. They are not covered by health insurance, and they do not require a doctor's order (actually, the radiologist at the facility which performs these is considered the ordering physician, because ALL imaging procedures require a doctor's order, except yearly screening mammograms. This is federal law). You can do a Yahoo or Google search with "whole body CT scanning" and your town/county/area to find a facility near you. You can read about these scans (including the controversy) at the link below:

http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/ct/screening.htm...

A word of warning about these whole body scans. If they show a possible problem which needs more follow up, your insurance may not cover that follow up either.

If you are adamant that you want a CT scan, consider another physician. But remember, if we did a CT scan on everybody who had an ache or pain, health care costs would be outrageous. Many times, your symptoms do not warrent a CT scan. CT scans are not good for every process...they are not a find all. You should ask your physician why he/she does not believe you need a CT. There may be a very good reason.

By the way, I cannot remember ever doing a CT scan because someone could feel lumps under their ribs.

no you must have a physician order for any test; however, you can go and see another doctor for a second opinion.

he could be right.could also be gallbladder or enlarged spleen, all of which can be dangerous.you could require emergency surgery. i would go to dr. and ask for a scan, but without dr. i don't think you can get one.

No, all diagnostic testing requires a physicians order. Tell your doc that you think he's off base and you would feel better if you had a CT to rule out underlying causes for your symptoms, if he refuses, see another doctor. You are entitled to a second opinion.

No, not possible. This is primarily driven from insurance. The scanning center may do it if you are willing to pay cash and forgo billing the insurance, but I doubt it. Not to mention that you would drop more than one or two pretty pennies if you paid cash.