Private MRI scans in the UK: How to Book without a GP referral

Private MRI scans in the UK: How to Book without a GP referral

 

Imagine this: You have pain in your right shoulder, you do some searching online, and you find out that the best way to explore soft tissue is with an MRI, a non-invasive, easy and quick scan. So you decide to get one. But now you're facing a new problem: how to get an MRI? Is there only the traditional, long, time-consuming way? Is there an alternative?

 

 

The traditional way to get an MRI scan

 

The standard process to get an MRI scan in the UK begins with visiting a General Practitioner (GP) through the National Health Service (NHS) to obtain a referral for your scan. The GP begins by assessing your symptoms together with your medical history and clinical status to decide if an MRI scan is required. The GP will refer you to a hospital or imaging centre for the scan after determining its appropriateness.

 The NHS referral system was created to properly use diagnostic imaging while efficiently prioritizing cases based on clinical need. The system functions well in theory yet patients face multiple challenges one of which is the long waiting times in reality. The NHS has established six-week targets for diagnostic imaging like MRI scans following patient referrals. Unfortunately though the actual waiting period for patients exceeds the six-week target because of both high patient numbers and insufficient resources.

 

 

Challenges within the NHS System

 

  • Waiting times

Despite NHS targets, waiting times for scans can exceed six weeks in many areas. While MRI, in particular, has a shorter waiting time compared to other scans, it's still not ideal. In 2024, 26% of MRI scans were delayed for over six weeks. CT scans had 57%.

However, this doesn't account for the time it takes to schedule the GP appointment in the first place nor the time to receive the results. If we factor in all of that, we find that the average waiting time is significantly longer.

  • Limited appointment flexibility

Appointments for MRI scans under the NHS are not as flexible and so it’ll be hard to accommodate patients' personal or work schedules.

  • Geography

Patients need to travel to specific hospitals or imaging centres for the scans, which can be less than ideal, particularly in rural areas where facilities are limited.

  • Resource limitations

A shortage in radiology staff, especially Radiologists and imaging equipment, contributes to a bottleneck. Even if you manage to get the scan on time, the report is most likely going to be delayed.

 

Uncertainty and the anxiety that comes from waiting for the scan is overwhelming. For some conditions, early diagnosis is critical. Delays will in best cases, prolong symptoms and may be a cause for postponing necessary treatments. The NHS system works hard to balance demand and resources, and the data show that it's improving, getting closer to its target over time. Still, in the meantime, it's not ideal. So, is there an alternative?

 

 

The alternative way

Private MRI services are an alternative to the NHS referral system. It allows patients to access scans without needing a GP referral for some scans, but even if it's required, you can do it much faster.

 

Advantages of doing MRI scans privatly

1.    Faster access: appointments within days or a week, consultations within 48 hours, scans within a few days, and reports within 1 week is what Skannr promises, significantly reducing waiting times.

2.    Flexible Scheduling: The appointment times are flexible and can be arranged at whatever time suits you including evenings and weekends.

3.    Choice of Location: Private scan platforms have many centres to choose from, so you can select the one that is nearest to you.

4.    Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees. Prices are clear, vary and affordable.

 

 

How self-referral works

You can book an MRI scan online or by phone. Those private providers have a medical team that reviews the patient's information to ensure the scan is appropriate before confirming the appointment. So you don't have to first see a GP for a referral.

Almost all MRI scans are available privately, including but not limited to:

  • Musculoskeletal scans: Imaging joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons to diagnose injuries or conditions, such as arthritis or whatever the cause of shoulder pain in our earlier example.
  • Neurological scans: Brain and spinal cord imaging to investigate headaches, dizziness, and any neurological symptoms.
  • Cardiac MRI: to assess heart structure and function.
  • Abdominal and pelvic scans: Evaluating abdominal organs such as the liver, kidneys, bowel and reproductive organs.
  • Whole-body scans: Comprehensive imaging of all the body.

 

 

Digital platforms -Skannr-

Skannr is here to simplify the whole process of booking private MRI scans. It has multiple providers, allowing you to compare prices, locations, and appointment availability and choose what works best for your specific needs.

 

Accessing an MRI scan through the NHS requires a GP referral; to get the referral, you have to schedule an appointment (which takes days to weeks). Then, you have to wait to get your scan appointment (weeks to a couple of months) and finally, get the scan report (another few weeks). This process involves significant waiting times and limited flexibility. So, if you'd like to get all that done in a much quicker way, private MRI scans offer a good alternative. Digital platforms have made it even easier with the ability to book online, allowing for price comparisons between different centres, checking availability, and having a medical team to ensure the need and safety.

While private MRI scans are not a substitute for NHS care, they offer a good option for those seeking timely diagnostic imaging. If you are considering private scans, you should weigh the benefits, costs, and clinical considerations to see what works best for you.