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IMAGING & DIAGNOSTICS
Same-Day CT Scans in Lakewood
A CT scan gives our doctors a detailed, 3D look inside your body — diagnostic capability you’d normally need an ER for. At ContinuEM, it’s on site, so you leave with answers, not a referral.
*CT scan availability is based on clinical evaluation, medical necessity, availability, and insurance eligibility.
What Is a CT Scan?
A CT (computed tomography) scan combines many X-ray images into detailed, cross-sectional 3D views of your body. Where a regular X-ray shows one flat layer, a CT shows your organs, blood vessels, and bones from every angle.
When You Might Need a CT Scan
Our ER-trained doctors order a CT when your symptoms need a deeper look than an exam or X-ray can give:
- Severe or unexplained abdominal pain that could signal appendicitis, kidney stones, or gallstones
- Head injuries and falls, where we check for internal bleeding and fractures
- Chest pain or breathing trouble involving the lungs or heart
- Suspected internal injury after an accident
- Locating infections, blood clots, tumors, or cysts
If your doctor elsewhere ordered imaging days out, call us or book a same-day appointment; we can scan you sooner.
Go to the ER instead: for signs of stroke, major trauma, or any life-threatening emergency, call 911.
What to Expect During Your Scan
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You lie on a table that slides into the scanner — a large, open ring, not a tunnel.
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The scanner rotates around you, taking images. You’ll hold still for the clearest results.
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Most scans take only a few minutes, and the scan itself is noninvasive.
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Our doctors review your images on site and go over the results with you.
CT Scan vs. X-Ray vs. MRI
| Scan | CT Scan | X-Ray | MRI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best For | Internal bleeding, organs, complex fractures | Broken bones, chest congestion | Soft tissue: brain, ligaments, muscles |
| Detail | 3D, cross-sectional | Single flat image | Highest soft-tissue detail |
| Speed | Minutes | Minutes | 30+ minutes |
Not sure which you need? You don’t have to be — our doctors choose the right imaging after your exam. All three are on site: X-ray · MRI · Ultrasound
Why Get Your CT Scan at ContinuEM
ER-level diagnostics at an urgent care
Same-visit imaging and results, at a fraction of ER cost
Open until 11 PM weekdays, 6 PM weekends
$99 upfront fee; most insurance accepted
Minutes from Long Beach, Cerritos, and Bellflower
FAQ
CT Scan FAQs
We recommend booking a same-day appointment or calling ahead — every CT starts with a doctor’s evaluation, and booking lets us confirm scanner availability before you arrive. If it’s medically necessary, we can usually scan you during that same visit.
You pay a $99 upfront service fee, and the remaining balance is billed to your insurance. We accept most in-network and out-of-network plans. See Insurance & Pricing.
Usually, before you leave. Our ER-trained doctors review your images on site and walk you through what they see.
A CT scan uses low doses of ionizing radiation, and we only order one when it’s medically necessary. Tell us if you’re pregnant or may be pregnant — we’ll choose safer imaging, like ultrasound.
BY SYMPTOM
Symptoms We CT Scan
- Abdominal pain
- Chest pain
- Severe headache or migraine
COVERAGE
We’ve Got You Covered
Most in-network and out-of-network insurance accepted. You pay a $99 upfront service fee; the rest is billed to your insurance.
*Exclusions apply for insurance plans without urgent care benefits — see cash payment options.
Medically reviewed by
Written by
ContinuEM Editorial Team
Last updated
July 28, 2026
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for any questions regarding a medical condition. If you’re experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.