How to refer for a diagnostic scan

Patients can be referred, directly from their own GP or specialist for any of the below procedures:

• X-ray
• MRI 
• CT 
• Ultrasound
• DEXA scan

The hospital requires a request form signed by your GP or the consultant requesting the examination and the reasons for the investigation. Once the hospital receives the completed form an appointment will be made for the patient at their convenience. Some departments accept requests from non-medical referrers but this is on an individual hospital basis.

Patients can self refer for a Mammogram if they meet the following strict criteria:

• Over 40 years of age
• Not had a mammogram within the last 12 months - either in the NHS or another private provider
• Must have NO current breast problems/symptoms (if the patient is symptomatic i.e a lump they must arrange to see their GP as soon as possible to arrange suitable tests)
• Not breast feeding

All other referrals will only be accepted from a GP or a consultant not from a non medical referrer, which is a person who is legally allowed to send a patient for an imaging examination but does not have a GMC (doctors registration). 

All patients must be registered with a GP or be under the care of a consultant so that results can be sent back to them once the scan is complete.

Internal hospital referrals can be sent directly to the X-Ray department, these appointments will be made by the administrative staff.

We do not perform obstetric (baby scans) at Ramsay hospitals.

Self paying

Prices are available upon request directly from the hospital. You can also spread the cost of your treatment with finance options available.

Private Medical Insurance

If you have been referred for a diagnostic procedure it may be covered by your medical insurance policy. We advise you to check directly with your insurance provider and get written confirmation before commencing with the scan.

Why go private for your diagnostic scan?

One of the major advantages of going private for your scan is that your appointments and scan times are arranged to suit you and without any unnecessary waiting. This is especially important if you are in a lot of pain and want the scan for diagnosis of a problem to then progress with a treatment plan.

Ramsay imaging and diagnostics provides a wide variety of tests and scans of the highest quality; carried out by our qualified, highly trained and experienced staff.

Additional benefits of being a private patient include:

• a choice of consultant, where possible
• rapid access to expert opinion on the best treatment for you
• single bedded rooms with en suite bathroom and flat screen TV
• choice from our a la carte menu as an inpatient
• unlimited aftercare*