Book a CT spine
near you
A CT spine scan shows the bones of the neck or back in detail. Learn when it's used instead of MRI, how to prepare and how Medicare and bulk billing apply.
Also called: spine CT, CT lumbar spine, CT lower back, CT neck, CT cervical spine
Find a clinic for your CT spine
91 clinics offer bulk billing for CT scan — eligibility varies
Where to get a CT spine
92 clinics across Melbourne and Victoria on Radly offer CT scan.
Clinics for a CT spine on Radly
See all 92 →
What is a CT spine?
A CT spine scan takes detailed pictures of one section of the spine — usually the neck (cervical), mid back (thoracic) or lower back (lumbar). It shows bone very clearly, including fractures, arthritis and narrowing around the nerves.
CT shows discs and nerves less clearly than MRI, but it is quick, widely available and attracts a Medicare rebate on a GP referral, so it's often used for back or neck pain with nerve symptoms. You lie on your back and keep still for a short time.
Why your doctor might request a CT spine
- Back or neck pain with nerve symptoms such as sciatica
- Suspected fracture after a fall or injury
- Assessing arthritis or spinal canal narrowing
- When MRI isn't suitable, such as with some pacemakers
- Checking position of hardware after spinal surgery
CT spine: preparation, referral & Medicare
Preparing for your CT spine
- No special preparation is usually needed
- Remove belts, jewellery and clothing with metal in the area being scanned
- Take your usual pain relief if lying flat is uncomfortable
- Tell staff if you are, or might be, pregnant
How long it takes: About 10–15 minutes
Referral, Medicare & bulk billing
A CT spine scan needs a referral, which a GP can provide. With a valid referral it attracts a Medicare rebate, and many clinics bulk bill some CT — it varies by clinic. Lumbar spine CT has a higher radiation dose than an X-ray, so your doctor will weigh up whether it's needed. The clinic will confirm billing for your referral. Booking through Radly sends a request, and the clinic confirms the time with you.
How it works
Get your referral
Most scans need a referral from your GP, specialist, or other health practitioner.
Compare clinics
Find clinics near you for your CT spine and compare bulk billing, reviews, and location.
Send your request
Share your preferred timing and send the clinic your details and referral when available.
Clinic confirms
The clinic reviews your request and confirms your appointment and any preparation needed.
If the clinic hasn’t acknowledged your request after 24 hours, Radly will follow up. We check in by SMS during daytime hours where SMS is available and you haven’t opted out. Reply N if you haven’t been contacted and our team will follow up. Acknowledgment does not mean an appointment is booked.
CT spine FAQs
Is a CT spine scan bulk billed?
Many clinics bulk bill CT spine with a valid referral, but it varies. The clinic will confirm.
CT or MRI for back pain?
MRI shows discs and nerves best without radiation, but GP-referred spine MRI is often private. CT is a common first step with a GP referral.
How long does a CT spine take?
The scan itself takes under a minute; allow about 10–15 minutes at the clinic.
How do I book a CT spine online?
Choose a clinic on Radly, select CT Scan as your scan, add your preferred timing and attach your referral, then send your booking request. The clinic contacts you to confirm the appointment and any preparation.
How soon can I get a CT spine?
Appointments for CT scan are usually 1–4 days, depending on the clinic and the exam. You can send a request on Radly at any time, and the clinic replies with its next available time.
Related scans
Helpful guides
Ready to book your CT spine?
Compare clinics near you and send a booking request in minutes.
Find a clinic