How to Avoid a Cheap PET-CT Center (Red Flags)

Talk to Health Expert

05 Feb, 2026

Dr. Nikunj Jain

Dr. Nikunj Jain

Co-Founder and HOD - Nuclear Medicine ,

MBBS, DRM, DNB, FEBNM, FANMB, Dip. CBNC

How to Avoid a Cheap PET-CT Center (Red Flags)

PET-CT scans are an important part of modern medical diagnostics, particularly cancer detection, treatment plan and follow-ups. However, the quality of service at not all PET-CT centres is equal. Although affordable prices might be appealing, very low prices of PET-CT scans occasionally affect the quality and safety of patients and accuracy. The awareness of the red flags makes you make a safe and confident decision.

This blog is designed to help you understand PET-CT scans simply and comfortably, while highlighting important red flags to watch for when choosing a low-cost PET-CT centre.

Why Price Alone Shouldn’t Decide Your PET-CT Scan

PET-CT scan is a complicated technology with highly trained staff and stringent safety precautions. Very low prices may indicate:

  • Outdated or poorly maintained machines.

  • Unqualified or inexperienced staff.

  • Hidden costs or unclear billing.

  • Reduced hygiene or patient safety protocols.

Your health and peace of mind are worth choosing a centre that prioritises accuracy, safety, and comfort are important than the price.

Red Flags to Watch For in a PET-CT Center

The warning signs that a PET-CT center is not of high standards are the following:

  • Unrealistically low prices relative to the normal market prices.

  • Manufactured by any uncertified or unaccredited health authority.

  • Lack of trained nuclear medicine specialists.

  • Poor hygiene, outdated scanning rooms, or uncomfortable facilities.

  • No clear explanation of the procedure or pre-scan guidance.

  • Difficulty in obtaining reports or no follow-up support.

How to Choose a Safe PET-CT Center

To obtain accurate and safe scans:

  •  Ensure that there is medical accreditation and licensing.

  • Check the radiologist's qualifications and experience in nuclear medicine.

  •  Establish the nature and service of machines (preferably, digital PET-CT)

  • Seek transparency of prices and billing.

  •  Read patient reviews and testimonials on quality assurance.

  • Make sure that the patients are appropriately guided throughout the preparation and after the scan.

Price vs Quality: What You Should Know

Factor

Cheap PET-CT Center

Trusted PET-CT Center

Machine Type

Old or poorly maintained

Modern Digital or well-maintained Analog machines

Radiologists

Less experienced

Certified nuclear medicine specialists

Safety Protocols

Limited or inconsistent

Strict safety standards

Hygiene

Often poor

Clean, monitored environment

Report Accuracy

May be delayed or incorrect

Accurate and timely

Patient Support

Minimal guidance

Full support, including pre/post scan guidance

Radiation Safety

May not be carefully monitored

Strictly controlled and safe

Tips to Avoid Low-Quality PET-CT Scans

  • Ask about accreditation and certifications

  • Confirm that specialists are trained in nuclear medicine

  • Verify machine type and maintenance records

·         Read online reviews and testimonials of patients.

  • Ensure transparent pricing with no hidden charges

  • Ask if they provide pre-scan instructions and post-scan guidance

  • Check how long it takes to receive scan reports

·         Make sure that the center is well-hygienic and safe.

Why Choosing a Safe PET-CT Scan Matters

PET-CT scans contain a small amount of radiation; as long as mishandled, it is safe. Lack of maintenance on machines, untrained staff, or rushed procedures can lead to:

Inaccurate results

  • Repeat scans with additional radiation exposure

  • Delayed diagnosis

  • Unnecessary anxiety or treatment errors

With a reliable center, you will have the peace of mind that your scan is accurate, safe, and comfortable.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Although it is only natural to look for low-cost PET-CT scans, safety, accuracy, and patient care should never be sacrificed. The cheap option of PET-CT can save expenses in the short run, but it may cause inconclusive findings, scanning redundancy, and unnecessary stress. In the Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy, PET-CT scans are performed at the highest level with certified radiologists, state of the art machine, safety measures, and, on top of that, full patient support. Book your scan today, have your questions answered clearly,y and receive the best diagnostic treatment that is accurate, safe, and friendly to patients by calling 92172 44110.

Frequently Asked Questions

Not always. Extremely low-cost scans may indicate compromised equipment or inexperienced staff. Always check credentials and certifications.

Check for accreditation, certified radiologists, updated machines, hygiene standards, and patient reviews.

No. Digital PET-CT machines provide sharper, clearer images than older analog systems, which improves accuracy.

Yes. Outdated or poorly maintained machines may produce unclear images, making diagnosis less reliable.

Ask about radiologist certifications, years of experience in nuclear medicine, and training records.

Not necessarily. Inaccurate results may require repeat scans, leading to more cost and stress.

Very important. Clean, monitored facilities reduce the risk of infection and ensure patient comfort.

Choose a centre with certified radiologists, modern equipment, transparent pricing, proper patient guidance, and positive reviews. Your safety and the accuracy of results are more important than cost alone.

In News

Download Our App

Get Our Mobile App
for Easy Access

Book tests, view reports, and manage your health records on the go. Experience convenient healthcare with Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy.

  • Book tests & home collection
  • View reports instantly
  • Track health history
  • Get notifications & reminders
  • Easy appointment management
Your Health Companion
Scan to download Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy App

Scan to download the app