Frequently asked questions

The CT team will show you into the scanner room and will help you get into the right position on the couch.Some people need to have a contrast medium to produce more detailed images, which involves an injection of dye. For this, a small needle (cannula) will be put into your arm/hand. You may experience a strange taste and you may feel a little warm for a short while. If you need contrast medium, you may also need to have a blood test before your scan as a precaution and to check your kidney function.If you are having an injection of contrast a member of staff will go through the safety questions with you, and you’ll be asked to sign it.When you are comfortable, the CT table moves you very slowly towards the hole in the centre of the ‘polo’ shaped scanner. The scanner will then produce the images.The CT team will be in the control room, but you will be able to talk to them via an intercom and they can see you on a screen.You may be asked to hold your breath during the scans to prevent any blurring on the image. If at any time you feel worried or uncomfortable you can let the CT team know using the intercom and they will do what they can to help.

The CT scan itself usually takes around 20-30 minutes and your appointment from start to finish is likely to be about 45 minutes.

We will provide you with an all-inclusive price and will always make any costs clear to you before they are incurred, so there is no need to worry about hidden extras. If additional tests or procedures are needed, we will always give you all the details beforehand and will ensure no cost is incurred without your full consent.

You can pay for your treatment by cheque, or debit/credit card (except American Express). Payments will be taken by our staff at the centre or over the telephone before your appointment.

No. Prime Health is accredited by all major private health insurers, and you can use your insurance policy if it covers the treatment or diagnosis you need, but if you don’t have insurance, you can simply pay.

Often people are surprised at the value for money private healthcare provides. Prices can vary - to find out the cost of a scan, consultation, treatment or test, please ask our customer service team by calling 03300 252 100

It is important to feel as comfortable as possible during your consultation, scan or treatment so it’s best to wear loose-fitting clothing. If you are coming for personal training or exercise classes, then please wear appropriate exercise clothing and trainers.

Yes, subject to infection control restrictions. However, they may not be allowed to stay in the scanning room if you need to have an intimate examination.

It you are using private health insurance for a medical consultations, diagnostic imaging or therapy services then your insurance company will usually expect a referral to have been agreed in advance by your GP.If you are self-paying for therapy, health and fitness , private GP or consultant services then you can normally self-refer, however it is sometimes best to have been referred by a healthcare professional so that your clinicians get a full picture of your general health and any previous medical conditions.Only a doctor or appropriately qualified clinician (IRMER accredited) can refer you for an x-ray because you to be exposed to radiation.If you are self-paying for an MRI or ultrasound scan, you can request the investigation yourself and one of Prime Health’s clinical team will advise whether the scan is an appropriate investigation for you/your condition. They may advise that a referral is necessary and if so, we work with leading healthcare professionals from a wide range of medical services who will be able to assist.

Yes, all Prime Health centres are accessible and fully compliant for disabled customers, with adapted toilets, lift access to all floors and hearing loop facilities. If you require any specific assistance during your visit to Prime Health, please do not hesitate to let us know.