Carotid Ultrasound for Blue Cross Blue Shield Patients at 14 Street Medical Arts
What Is a Carotid Ultrasound?
A carotid ultrasound, also called a carotid Doppler study, is a safe, painless, non-invasive imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to evaluate the carotid arteries in your neck. These arteries deliver blood to your brain, and any narrowing or blockage can significantly increase the risk of stroke.
With real-time imaging, carotid ultrasound can detect plaque buildup (atherosclerosis), narrowing (stenosis) of the carotid arteries, complete blockages, and abnormal or reduced blood flow to the brain. Because the test involves no radiation, injections, or surgical instruments, it is one of the safest and most effective ways to assess vascular health.
Why Carotid Ultrasound Matters
Carotid artery disease often develops silently until it leads to a serious complication such as a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke. Stroke remains one of the leading causes of disability and death in the United States. Early detection with carotid ultrasound can help prevent these life-threatening events.
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have risk factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or smoking. It is also recommended if you experience symptoms such as sudden dizziness, vision loss, weakness, or difficulty speaking. Patients with a family history of stroke or vascular disease, or those with a carotid bruit (an abnormal sound heard with a stethoscope), may also benefit from the test.
Carotid Ultrasound for Blue Cross Blue Shield Patients
At 14 Street Medical Arts, we accept Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance for diagnostic imaging services, including carotid ultrasound. Our BCBS patients benefit from insurance coverage for eligible diagnostic exams, lower out-of-pocket costs than hospital-based imaging centers, flexible scheduling with minimal wait times, and same-day results interpreted by board-certified radiologists.
Affordable Self-Pay Options
We understand that many patients have high insurance deductibles or may prefer not to go through insurance. That is why 14 Street Medical Arts offers self-pay options with deep discounts for carotid ultrasound and other diagnostic imaging services.
Self-pay benefits include transparent, upfront pricing with no hidden fees, significant cost savings compared to hospital imaging centers, and fast, hassle-free appointments without waiting for insurance approvals. This makes quality vascular imaging accessible to everyone, whether you have Blue Cross Blue Shield coverage or choose to self-pay.
What to Expect During the Test
No preparation is needed. You can eat and drink normally before your test. During the procedure, you will lie on an exam table while a technologist applies gel to your neck. A small probe, called a transducer, captures images and measures blood flow in real time. The test usually takes 20 to 30 minutes, and you can resume normal activities immediately afterward.
Why Patients Choose 14 Street Medical Arts
Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance accepted
Discounted self-pay options for high-deductible patients
Experienced technologists and board-certified radiologists
State-of-the-art ultrasound equipment
Multiple NYC locations for convenience
Fast scheduling and results
Protect Your Health with Early Detection
If you are at risk for stroke or vascular disease, do not wait until symptoms appear. A carotid ultrasound at 14 Street Medical Arts provides peace of mind and helps detect problems early.
Call today to schedule your appointment. Whether you are a Blue Cross Blue Shield member or prefer our affordable self-pay option with deep discounts, we are here to provide the highest quality care.