Private MRI scan

No radiation, no referral needed. The scan of choice for joints, spine, brain and organs.

A private MRI scan at Prime Health takes about 30 minutes and is available at all four centres in London, Surrey, Sussex and Greater Manchester, with a consultant radiologist report returned within a short turnaround.

Weybridge, Harley Street and Stockport run 3T Siemens scanners; Brighton runs 1.5T Siemens and Philips. Where a centre runs 1.5T rather than 3T, that is a different tool rather than a lesser one: more implants and surgical metalwork are safe at 1.5T, and it produces less distortion around metal.

What an MRI is good for

MRI uses a strong magnetic field rather than radiation, which makes it the first choice for soft tissue: joints and ligaments, the spine and discs, the brain, and the abdominal and pelvic organs. Because there is no radiation, no referral is required and the scan can be repeated safely.

What happens on the day

You lie still while the scanner takes its images, which takes around 30 minutes depending on the area. You can bring someone with you for most scans. A consultant radiologist reports the images and we return the report within a short turnaround.

Prices for MRI at each centre are on the centre pages: see all centres. Or call us on 0330 025 2100.

Looking for local information? See our dedicated pages for a private MRI scan in London, a private MRI in Surrey, a private MRI in Manchester, or a private MRI in Brighton.

Preparing for an MRI scan

What to expect on the day and how to get ready, so your scan goes smoothly.