⚠ Draft — pending clinical sign-off by our CMO
MRI scan: cost, NHS wait & what to expect
Typical self-pay price
£250–£850
Typical NHS wait
Around 4–12 weeks for non-urgent scans
Overview
An MRI scan uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of inside the body. It does not use X-ray radiation and is often used to investigate joints, the spine, the brain and soft tissues.
Why it's done
- Investigating persistent pain or injury
- Assessing the brain, spine or joints
- Following up an abnormal result
What happens
You lie still inside the scanner for 15–60 minutes. It's painless but noisy; tell staff if you have any metal implants or are claustrophobic.
Risks & things to consider
- Generally very safe
- Not suitable for some implanted metal devices
- Contrast dye, if used, can rarely cause reactions
Alternatives
- Ultrasound or CT, depending on what's being investigated
- NHS imaging where clinically indicated
Questions to ask your provider
- Which body part does the price cover?
- Is a radiologist's report included?
- How quickly will I get the results?