Medically reviewed by Dr Pinakin V Parekh, General & Interventional Cardiologist (MBBS (Singapore), MRCP (UK), GDFM (Singapore), FAMS (Singapore), FRCP (Glasgow)). Last Updated: 2026, 28 August
Founder & Medical Director of Trident Heart Centre
Dr Pinakin V Parekh is an interventional cardiologist in Singapore with over 20 years of experience in heart care. He specialises in the diagnosis and treatment of heaart diseases, including procedures such as angiogram and angioplasty.
A calcium score test is a quick, non-invasive CT scan that measures the amount of calcium in the walls of your coronary arteries. Calcium is a sign of plaque buildup, which can narrow your arteries and make it harder for blood to flow to your heart. Measuring it helps assess your risk of coronary artery disease, even before symptoms appear.
This test is useful for patients who want to understand their heart health and prevent future heart problems. You might be advised to have a calcium score test if you:
The calcium score test measures calcified plaque in your coronary arteries, helping to identify:
Both tests use a CT scanner and are non-invasive, but they serve slightly different purposes.
Depending on your health and your doctor’s recommendation, a CT coronary angiogram may be suggested for a more comprehensive assessment, while a calcium score test gives a simpler measure of calcium buildup.
A calcium score test is a quick, non-invasive scan that lets your doctor see the amount of calcium in your heart arteries, helping guide your heart health decisions.
Before the scan, your doctor may advise you to:
During the scan:
After the scan, you can usually resume your normal activities immediately and no recovery time is needed. Your doctor will review the results and discuss next steps.
Your calcium score indicates the level of calcium in your coronary arteries:
Our doctor will discuss your score and suggest preventive or treatment measures based on your results.
If your calcium score is high, your doctor may recommend:
Early detection allows for proactive measures to reduce your risk of heart attack or other complications.
No, the calcium score test is quick and painless. Most patients just lie comfortably while the scan is done.
The test usually takes about 10–15 minutes from start to finish.
No fasting is needed but you should avoid caffeine before the test and remove any metal accessories.
Dr Pinakin can usually review the results within 24 hours and explain what they mean for your heart health.
Yes, Medisave can usually be used for the calcium score test, subject to your annual withdrawal limits. Insurance coverage may vary. Sometimes a referral is needed to claim, and regular screening tests may not be reimbursed. Please reach out to our clinic for guidance on your specific situation.
It depends on your heart risk factors and doctor’s recommendation, but often it’s repeated every 1–3 years if monitoring is needed.
Dr Pinakin uses current, evidence-based methods to carefully evaluate and treat heart conditions, helping you feel confident in your care.
Every patient is treated as an individual, with attention to your full health and lifestyle, not just the heart problem.
From assessment to treatment, screenings and procedures are conveniently coordinated in one place for a smoother, more reassuring experience.
