Private MRI Scan
Private MRI Scan – Book a Scan
From £397 | Final price depends on location, provider, body area, number of areas scanned and whether contrast is required.
Your booking may require clinical review, referral checks or provider approval before the appointment is confirmed. This helps ensure the scan is appropriate, safe and accepted by the imaging provider.
Scan Overview
An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan uses powerful magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of soft tissues, organs, joints and the nervous system. It does not use ionising radiation, making it suitable for a wide range of clinical indications.
Private MRI scans are available at accredited UK imaging centres, with appointments often available within days. Pricing and availability vary by body area, provider and location.
What an MRI Scan May Help Assess
- Brain and neurological conditions
- Spinal conditions including disc problems and nerve compression
- Musculoskeletal injuries including ligaments, tendons and cartilage
- Abdominal and pelvic organs
- Cardiac structure and function
- Vascular conditions
- Soft tissue masses or abnormalities
An MRI scan can provide useful imaging information, but it does not diagnose a condition. Your provider or referring clinician will interpret the results in the context of your clinical history.
Who This Scan May Be Suitable For
MRI scans may be suitable for self-referral for selected body areas, depending on provider policy. Some MRI scans require a referral from a GP, consultant or clinician before the appointment can be confirmed. Your provider will confirm suitability based on your clinical information and the area being scanned.
Referral and Clinical Review Requirements
Some MRI scans may be booked directly after completing a medical form and passing safety checks. Others require clinical review or referral, particularly for complex symptoms, neurological concerns or where contrast is needed.
Some scans can be booked directly after completing a medical form. Other scans require clinical review, referral checks or provider approval before confirmation. We will guide you through the correct pathway based on your scan type, symptoms, location and provider requirements.
Medical Form
All patients must complete a medical information and MRI safety screening form before their appointment can be confirmed. This is a mandatory safety requirement for all MRI scans.
MRI Safety Checks
MRI uses a strong magnetic field. The following safety checks are required for all patients:
- Pacemakers, implantable cardiac devices or neurostimulators
- Metal implants, surgical clips, plates, screws or prosthetics
- Metal fragments in the eyes or body
- Cochlear implants or hearing aids
- Pregnancy (particularly first trimester)
- Claustrophobia or anxiety in enclosed spaces
- Kidney function (if contrast is required)
- Allergy history (if contrast is required)
Patients with certain implants or devices may not be suitable for MRI. Your provider will review your safety form before confirming the appointment.
Preparation
Preparation requirements vary depending on the body area and whether contrast is used. Your provider will send specific preparation instructions after your booking is confirmed. You will generally be asked to remove all metal objects and may need to change into a gown. For abdominal or pelvic scans, fasting instructions may apply.
Available Locations
MRI scans are available at a network of accredited UK imaging centres. Availability, pricing and appointment times vary by location and body area. You will be able to select your preferred location or search by postcode during the booking process.
What Happens After Booking
- Complete the medical information and MRI safety screening form
- Your booking is reviewed for clinical suitability and safety
- Your appointment is confirmed by the provider
- Attend your scan at the chosen location
- Receive your results report
Results and Reporting
Results are typically reported by a consultant radiologist and made available within 24–48 hours of your scan, depending on the provider and complexity. Your report will be sent to you directly and, where applicable, to your referring clinician.
Pricing
From £397
Final price depends on location, provider, body area, number of areas scanned, contrast requirements and whether additional clinical review is needed. You will be shown the confirmed price before completing your booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral for a private MRI scan?
It depends on the body area and provider. Some MRI scans may be suitable for self-referral after completing a medical form. Others require a GP or consultant referral. We will guide you through the correct pathway for your specific scan.
Is an MRI scan safe?
MRI does not use ionising radiation and is considered safe for most patients. However, the strong magnetic field means that patients with certain implants, devices or metal fragments may not be suitable. A safety screening form is required for all patients.
What if I am claustrophobic?
Please inform us when booking. Some providers offer open or wide-bore MRI scanners. Your provider may also be able to discuss options to help manage anxiety during the scan.
How long does an MRI scan take?
Scan times vary depending on the body area. Most scans take between 20 and 60 minutes. You will be given an estimated duration when your appointment is confirmed.
How quickly will I get my results?
Results are typically available within 24–48 hours of your scan, depending on the provider and complexity of the case.