When I turn on my ceiling fan it often needs a push start after which there is a scraping sound until it picks up speed. Is there a way to stop the scraping and get the fan to move on its own?

It might be the capacitor for the fan motor that is defective.

OR a flywheel, or oil.

What make is the fan?

General ceiling fan troubleshooting and help FAQ- Ceiling Fans N More (http://www.ceiling-fans-n-more.com/ceiling-fan-general-troubleshooting-and-FAQ.php)