What is nuclear medicine?

Nuclear medicine uses small amounts of radioactive materials to diagnose and treat diseases. It shows how organs are functioning, not just their structure.

Is nuclear medicine safe?

Yes, nuclear medicine procedures are generally safe. The amount of radiation used is very small, similar to that from other common imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans.

How is it different from an X-ray or MRI?

X-rays and MRIs primarily show body structure. Nuclear medicine, however, reveals how your organs and tissues are working at a cellular level, offering unique insights into disease.

Do I need a referral to see a nuclear medicine specialist?

Often, yes. Most nuclear medicine procedures are ordered by your primary doctor or another specialist, but it's always good to check with the facility and your insurance.

What should I tell the nuclear medicine team?

Be sure to tell them about any allergies, previous reactions to medication or contrast dye, and if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Also, list all current medications you are taking.

How long do nuclear medicine tests take?

The time varies significantly. Some tests might take 30 minutes, while others such as PET scans, can take several hours, including time for the radiotracer to be absorbed in your body.

Find a Nuclear Medicine Near You

40 verified nuclear medicine specialists are accepting patients. Compare ratings, insurance accepted, languages spoken, and telehealth options.

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Are you looking for a Nuclear Medicine specialist? You've come to the right place. Nuclear medicine uses very small amounts of radioactive materials, called radiotracers, to help doctors diagnose and treat a wide range of diseases. These special tests can show how your organs and tissues are working, not just what they look like. This can be very helpful for finding problems early.

For example, nuclear medicine can help find heart problems, detect small cancers, or see how your bones are doing. The tests are generally safe and provide doctors with unique information that other imaging tests might miss. Whether your doctor has recommended a specific scan or you're curious about what nuclear medicine can do, finding the right specialist is an important first step. Our directory helps you locate experienced nuclear medicine doctors and facilities near you, making it easier to get the care you need with confidence.

Conditions treated

Thyroid cancer
Bone metastases
Heart disease
Kidney function issues
Lung blood clots
Brain disorders
Gallbladder problems
Infections

Common procedures

PET scans
SPECT scans
Bone scans
Cardiac stress tests
Thyroid uptakes
Kidney scans
Gallbladder scans
Radioactive iodine therapy

When to see a nuclear medicine

Your doctor suspects a heart condition.
You need to assess thyroid function.
There's unexplained bone pain.
You have symptoms of a rare infection.
Your cancer treatment needs monitoring.
You need detailed organ function assessment.

First visit

During your first visit, you'll likely discuss your medical history and symptoms with the nuclear medicine specialist. They will explain the specific procedure recommended and answer any questions you may have.

Typical cost

Out-of-pocket costs for nuclear medicine procedures can vary widely, from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on your insurance plan and the specific test.