X-rays in Poole

Private X-ray imaging at The Harbour Hospital 

An X-ray is often one of the first imaging tests used to investigate pain, injury, or changes in your body. It provides clear images of bones and joints, helping to quickly identify a range of conditions and guide the next steps in your healthcare journey. 

At The Harbour Hospital, you can access private X-ray imaging in Poole with fast access to appointments, expert clinical reporting, and care delivered in a calm and comfortable environment. 

Choosing private imaging allows you to avoid long waiting times, receive results quickly, and move forward with your diagnosis and treatment with confidence. 

Your X-ray is carried out by experienced radiographers who specialise in diagnostic imaging. Radiographers are trained to operate the imaging equipment and ensure high-quality images are captured safely and accurately.  

After your scan is complete, the images are reviewed by your consultant radiologist. Radiologists are medical specialists who interpret imaging results, provide a detailed report of your scan, and support your diagnosis and tailored treatment plan. 

From your appointment through to receiving your results, the process at The Harbour Hospital is designed to be efficient, accurate, and reassuring, with clear communication at every stage. 

How much does a private X-ray cost at The Harbour Hospital? 

The cost of a private X-ray depends on the type of scan being performed and whether any additional assessments are required. 

You can choose to fund your treatment through self-pay (paying for yourself) or use private health insurance. We work with most major providers, and our friendly advisory team can help guide you through using your cover. 

Our flexible payment options help you spread the cost of your payment across a time period that suits you. We offer fixed-term monthly payment plans over one to five years with no deposit required. If you decide to pay over 10 months, you will pay interest-free. If you are paying for a longer period, you will pay 9.9% APR. 

What is an X-ray?

An X-ray is a diagnostic imaging technique that uses a small amount of radiation to produce images of the inside of your body. It is most used to assess bones and joints, although it can also provide information about certain soft tissues. 

During an X-ray, radiation passes through your body and is absorbed at different rates by different tissues. Dense structures such as bone absorb more radiation and appear clearly on the image, while softer tissues appear in less detail. 

Because X-rays are quick and widely available, they are often used as a first-line investigation to help identify fractures, joint changes, or abnormalities within the chest or spine. 

X-rays are generally safe and considered low risk, with benefits in diagnosing illnesses usually outweighing potential risks. They use such small amounts of ionizing radiation, and while high doses or frequent exposure pose a very small, long-term cancer risk, the risk from a single diagnostic X-ray is exceptionally low.  Some of the most common types of X-rays are: 

Bones and joints X-ray 

An X-ray is one of the best ways of examining your bones and joints. They can be used to check everything from congenital abnormalities to osteoporosis to fractures and breaks. 

Dental X-ray

You might have your teeth and jaw X-rayed to identify a variety of issues including loose teeth, problem wisdom teeth or dental abscesses. 

Chest X-ray 

An X-ray can be used to look inside your chest and see how well your heart and lungs are functioning. You might be recommended this if you are having symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest pains. 

Breast X-ray 

This can be used to look for abnormalities and tumours in your breasts and can identify conditions including breast cancer. 

Contrast X-ray 

Sometimes you will be given something called a contrast agent before you have your X-ray, which can make your soft tissues show more clearly in the images produced. 

Why might you need an X-ray? 

An X-ray may be recommended when your consultant needs to quickly assess the structure of your bones or joints, particularly following injury or when investigating persistent symptoms. 

You may be referred for an X-ray if you have experienced trauma, developed ongoing pain, or noticed changes in movement or function. It is also commonly used to monitor existing conditions or assess how well an injury is healing. 

Suspected fractures or injuries

X-rays are frequently used following falls, sports injuries, or accidents to identify fractures, dislocations, or bone damage. They provide a fast and effective way to confirm whether a bone has been broken and to guide appropriate treatment. 

Joint pain and arthritis 

If you are experiencing ongoing joint pain or stiffness, an X-ray can help identify signs of osteoarthritis or joint degeneration. This may include narrowing of joint spaces, bone changes, or the presence of bone spurs. 

Spinal and postural issues 

X-rays can be used to assess the alignment of your spine and identify conditions such as curvature, degeneration, or injury affecting the vertebrae. This can be particularly useful if you are experiencing back or neck pain. 

Chest and respiratory concerns 

Chest X-rays are used to assess the lungs and surrounding structures. They can help investigate symptoms such as persistent cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain, and may identify infections, inflammation, or other abnormalities. 

Monitoring existing conditions 

In some cases, X-rays are used to track the progression of a known condition or to assess your healing following treatment, such as after a fracture or orthopaedic procedure. 

Your consultant will explain why an X-ray has been recommended and what information it is expected to provide. 

How should you prepare for an X-ray? 

Preparing for an X-ray is usually simple and, in most cases, no special preparation is required. You can typically eat, drink, and take your usual medications as normal before your appointment. 

You may be asked to remove jewellery, metal objects, or clothing with metal fastenings, as these can interfere with image quality. In some cases, you may be provided with a hospital gown. 

You will receive clear instructions before your appointment so you know exactly what to expect. Following this guidance helps ensure accurate imaging results. 

What happens during an X-ray?

During your X-ray, a radiographer will position you carefully to ensure the correct part of your body is being examined. Depending on the type of scan, you may be asked to stand, sit, or lie on an examination table. 

The X-ray machine will then be used to capture images of the area. You may be asked to remain still or hold your breath briefly while the images are taken to ensure clarity. 

The procedure itself is quick and painless, often taking only a few minutes. Once the images have been captured, you can return to your normal activities straight away. X-ray examinations can be used on most areas of the body and can help to identify various problems. 

X-ray FAQs 

Below are answers to some of your most asked questions about having an X-ray. 

Who can have an X-ray?

Most people can safely have an X-ray. However, additional precautions may be taken for certain groups, such as those who are pregnant, to minimise any potential risk. 

Can I have an X-ray if I am pregnant?

Yes, you can generally get an X-ray while pregnant, but you should tell your radiographer that you are pregnant before having the scan so they can take any necessary precautions.  

Are there any side effects?

X-rays are generally very safe. The most common ‘side effects’ are actually associated with the use of contrast dyes, rather than the X-ray radiation itself. If you have a contrast dye, you might experience temporary reactions, including a feeling of warmth or flushing, a metallic taste in the mouth, and lightheadedness or nausea. 

How does contrast dye work? 

Contrast dye (iodine or barium) is used in X-rays to highlight blood vessels, organs, or tissues, appearing as white on images on the scan. It usually is injected or swallowed, causing temporary warmth or a metallic taste. It is generally safe, exiting the body via urine within 24–48 hours. 

When will you receive your results?

Your X-ray images are reviewed by your radiologist who prepares a detailed report for you. The results are typically available promptly, helping support timely diagnosis and next steps in your care. 

Why choose The Harbour Hospital for your X-ray in Poole? 

When you choose to go private with Circle Health Group, you can expect:   

• Flexible appointment times to fit your schedule 
• Bespoke, consultant-led treatment plans tailored to your individual needs  
• Support from the same compassionate clinical team from beginning to end  
• Transparent, fixed-price packages with aftercare included  
• Flexible payment options to help spread the cost of your care 

Going private for healthcare provides faster access to a vast range of treatment options, greater flexibility in choosing specialists, and more personalised care.  

How to book an X-ray in Poole

To book a consultation to discuss an X-ray with a radiologist near you, use our online booking system, or give us a call and one of our dedicated advisors will help you find an appointment time that suits you.  

Do you need a referral for a private X-ray?

In many cases, a referral from a GP, consultant or healthcare professional is recommended before having a private X-ray. This helps ensure that the most appropriate imaging test is performed and that the results can be interpreted within the context of your medical history and symptoms.  
 
If you already have a referral from your doctor or physiotherapist, our team can arrange your X-ray appointment quickly and ensure the results are returned directly to the referring clinician.  
 
If you do not yet have a referral but are experiencing symptoms such as persistent pain or a suspected injury, our team can advise you on the next steps. In some situations, a consultation with one of our specialists may be arranged first to determine the most suitable imaging investigation.