Overview
At Prime Health we understand that if you need an ultrasound, you want it quickly, or at a time convenient to you. You also want reassurance that the quality of the ultrasound scan is high and that the report produced will provide your health specialist with the information they need to get your treatment underway and you back on the road to recovery, fast.
We provide a first-class diagnostic service and have a huge amount of experience in delivering high-quality ultrasound scans which are carried out and interpreted and reported by highly experienced specialist radiologists.
Ultrasound is used to study soft tissue structures and can investigate, identify and diagnose a wide range of medical conditions. It can sometimes complement other forms of diagnostic scans and because it provides real-time live imaging it’s highly effective as a guide during a procedure like a joint injection.
We offer ultrasound scans at short notice to people with private medical insurance or those who simply wish to pay for the convenience of being seen quickly and efficiently.
If you are in need of an ultrasound scan, book an appointment at Prime Health – click here.
What is an ultrasound scan?
An ultrasound scan creates a live image of internal organs using sound waves of a frequency above the audible range of the human ear. A small hand-held sensor pressed carefully against the skin surface generates sound waves and detects any echoes reflected off the surfaces and tissues of our internal organs. The sensor can be moved over the skin to view the organs from different angles. The images are displayed on a screen and recorded for subsequent study.
If you are having an ultrasound, you may have questions about the experience. We understand this and have produced a comprehensive number of Frequently Asked Questions regarding ultrasound scans. From how to prepare for a scan, to what to expect during the scan to ensure you are confident and comfortable about it. If you still have questions when you come in for your scan, we’re always happy to help.
Book an Ultrasound Scan
At Prime Health, you can access our state-of-the-art diagnostics, with or without insurance.
If you already have a referral, booking an ultrasound scan is an easy and straightforward process, and we will give you access at a date and time that suits you.
If you don’t have a referral but need a diagnostic scan, contact our team on 03300 252 100 and we will advise how we can help.
Other Ultrasound Scan Services
Common Questions
Answers to frequently asked questions about our services and appointments at Prime Health.
If you have an appointment for a private Ultrasound scan at our centres in Surrey, Harley Street or Manchester, you can view and download a copy of our patient leaflet here.
An ultrasound scan is non-invasive and painless. It provides detailed images of internal organs, tissues, and structures.
Ultrasound scans are versatile diagnostic tools, capable of producing detailed images of various structures and organs within the body. An ultrasound scan is non-invasive and painless.A healthcare professional will recommend an ultrasound based on your specific symptoms, medical history, and the information needed to make an accurate diagnosis or treatment plan.
Ultrasound imaging uses sound waves to create images of the inside of the body. It helps diagnose the causes of pain, swelling, and infection in the body's internal organs. Ultrasound is safe, non-invasive, and does not use radiation.At Prime Health, we use ultrasound to diagnose a wide range of conditions, including sports injuries. Additionally, we use it to assist in the diagnosis of chronic pain and administer pain relief injections.Ultrasound is also used to monitor the health of an unborn baby. Please note: this service is not available at Prime Health.
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.
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
You’ll be asked to lie on a scanning bed. The lights may be dimmed so that the images on the screen are as sharp as possible.
- The radiologist/sonographer will put some gel on your skin. This allows the sensor to be moved around more easily and helps produce sharper images
- Depending on where you have the scan, you may be asked to take deep breaths and to hold your breath for a few moments. For a bladder scan, if your bladder isn’t full enough, you may be asked to have another drink
- The radiologist/sonographer will slowly move the sensor over your skin while looking at the images on the screen. They’ll record some of these to study in detail later. When it’s all done, they’ll wipe off the gel, and you’ll be free to go
Yes, you can eat and drink as normal.
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.
We’ll let you know about anything you need to do differently before your scan when we send your appointment letter. For example:
- If your pelvis, kidney or bladder are being scanned, you may need to have a full bladder
- For some scans (such as the gallbladder and pancreas) you may be asked to fast for several hours
- Please let us know in advance if you’ve had another ultrasound scan recently
- If you’re diabetic, please bring some food and your medication to the centre
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.
No. Ultrasound scans are very safe, and there are no known risks.
Sonographers (radiographers) or radiologists (doctors) that have specialised training in the technique of ultrasound. They carry out a great number of these examinations and will provide a descriptive report of their findings to your doctor.
No, we do not offer obstetric ultrasound scans at Prime Health.
Ultrasound images complement other forms of scans and are widely used for many different parts of the body. They can also be used to study blood flow and to detect any narrowing or blockage of blood vessels, for example, in the neck.Ultrasound is also used for intimate examinations; for example, of the prostate gland in men or the womb or ovaries in women. For some of these examinations, it may be necessary to place a small ultrasound probe in the vagina or the rectum to look at internal structures. If you are having an intimate examination the radiologist or sonographer will describe the procedure to you before and seek your informed consent.
An ultrasound scan is a picture of part of the inside of the body. It uses sound waves of a frequency above the audible range of the human ear. A small hand-held sensor pressed carefully against the skin surface generates sound waves and detects any echoes reflected back off the surfaces and tissues of our internal organs. The sensor can be moved over the skin to view the organs from different angles. The images are displayed on a screen and recorded for subsequent study.
Available at the following Locations
Each of our sites provide first-class services and expert diagnostic scanning facilities. Every site offers multidisciplinary team of experts including GPs, physiotherapists, nutritionists, personal trainers and our specialist consultants.
Our expertise
Our diagnostic imaging expertise is second to none.
Prime Health has many years of experience in diagnostic imaging and draws on the expertise of a team that is passionate about rethinking your healthcare experience.
We will give you access to the best expertise and technology at a date and time that suits you.
So, you have the knowledge to Keep You Healthy.
Book A Private MRI Scan Without A Referral
If you don’t have a referral from a health professional, you can now easily self-refer for an MRI scan at Prime Health.
We offer daily appointments, allowing you to choose a time and date that suits your convenience.
Patient feedback
Our experts
Our diagnostic experts are at the top of their field
The healthcare teams and consultants that work with Prime Health are of the highest calibre. With years of experience, and a reputation for accuracy and excellence they have developed an enviable reputation.
Every decision made, every healthcare plan developed with you and treatment recommended has your needs at heart and is unique to you.
Their goal, like yours, is to keep you well.
