Mobile vascular screenings-Are they legit?

[markprior22]

I received a flyer for a group that will be doing vascular screenings at a local church. I've seen ads for these types of things in newspapers also. Have you ever participated in this or a similar screening process? This latest offer is for 5 screenings for $ 150.00. If legit, it seems like something worthwhile. My hesitations are 1) The tests aren't accurate or don't show enough detailed info to make an informed decision moving forward or 2) will the tests show something that is abnormal but something everyone at my age might have and start me down a rabbit hole of spending money for not much return. An analogy for #2 is taking your car to a mechanic and saying "look over the engine and let me know everything that is wrong." If the car has some mileage, I'm sure the mechanic would be able to find a number of things wrong. Be many of the things are not worth investing the money to fix.

I'm 50 yrs old, overweight but I do get yearly physicals including bloodwork.
Guess I'm getting to the age where I'm more concerned about my heart than I used to be but also don't want to piss money away.

[miked]

Sounds like some people just bought an ultrasound and are driving it around? The test is only as good as the people giving it (and reading it). Most U/S techs in major hospitals are pretty good, but I don't know about mobile private companies. I guess 5 screenings is for carotid, abdomen, legs, and arms, but it won't catch anything in your coronaries. The sensitivity of U/S at plaque detection is not high and probably not as informative as some blood tests.

[markprior22]

Probably should have included more info about the tests. They are:

1) stroke/carotid artery screening
2) heart rhythm screening (atrial fibrillation)
3) abdominal aortic aneurysm screening
4) peripheral arterial disease screening
5) osteoporosis risk assessment

[JPhillips]

I'd speak to my primary care physician about concerns and worries.