Frequently asked questions
Prime Health is here to keep you well and help you make the right health decisions so we've gathered a list of frequently asked questions about our centres and the wide range of services we provide.
X-rays are of a type of radiation known as ionising radiation. The dose that you get from a medical x-ray is very low and the associated risks are minimal. The radiation you will receive is equivalent to that which we all receive from the atmosphere over a period of 2-3 days. The radiographer is responsible for making sure that your dose is kept as low as possible and that the benefits of having the x-ray outweigh any risk.It is important to tell your doctor and the radiographer if there is any possibility that you are pregnant as radiation can be harmful for an unborn baby. Please inform the radiographer if you have had a similar x-ray recently. Each x-ray request will be checked by the radiographer to make sure it is properly justified and necessary.
The images will be examined after your visit, and a written report sent to your referring doctor. 90% - 95% of our reports are with your doctor within two days.To book an ultrasound scan with Prime Health - click here
Our staff will show you where to wait and the radiographer will explain the procedure for your examination and show you to a private cubicle if you need to remove your garments. You may be asked to put on a clean gown which will be provided.The radiographer will ask you to confirm that you are happy for the x-ray to go ahead. This is a form of verbal consent and may only involve the radiographer checking you are booked for the correct x-ray. If you do not wish to have the x-ray or are undecided, please discuss it with the radiographer - they can answer any questions you may have.
Yes, subject to infection control restrictions. However, for safety reasons they won’t be able to accompany you into the x-ray room, unless there are exceptional circumstances.
You don’t need to prepare for a routine x-ray at Prime Health. However, you may be asked to remove items of clothing or remove any jewellery that may interfere with the x-ray, for example, necklaces for chest x-rays, rings for hand x-rays.
Ultrasound itself does not produce discomfort and apart from the sensor on your skin you will not feel anything. If you’ve been asked to come to the centre with a full bladder, it may be a little uncomfortable. Similarly, if we need to apply pressure over an inflamed organ (such as your gallbladder), you may feel some discomfort while that’s being done.
No. Ultrasound scans are very safe, and there are no known risks.
The radiologist or sonographer will explain what’s involved in detail, and you will be able to ask any questions before giving consent to proceed with the examination. *For more information about Informed Consent please visit: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/consent-to-treatment/.If you are required to remove any clothing for the procedure, you’ll be shown to a private cubicle where you can change into a gown.If you require a chaperone for the examination, please inform the radiologist or sonographer.
The scan usually takes around 20-30 minutes and you’ll need to allow 30-40 minutes in total for your appointment.
After the scan, the images will be examined by the radiologist who is responsible for producing a written report on their findings to send to your referring clinician.Our radiologists are all qualified doctors and specialise in specific body areas, giving you, and your referring clinician confidence in the accuracy of your report.To book your MRI scan with Prime Health - click here
