Get fast access to private MRI scans near you, with quick results delivered by experts
An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan is one of the most effective ways to investigate a wide range of symptoms and medical conditions. Whether you're experiencing ongoing pain, have suffered an injury, or your consultant has recommended further investigation, an MRI scan can provide detailed images that help identify the cause of your symptoms.
At London Independent Hospital, we offer private MRI scans in East London with prompt appointments, consultant-led care, and access to advanced imaging technology. Our experienced team provides high-quality diagnostic services to support accurate diagnosis and help you access the most appropriate treatment without unnecessary delays.
Our priority is to provide high-quality care in a calm and supportive environment, ensuring you feel informed, comfortable, and confident throughout every stage of your appointment.
Your MRI scan will be requested and reviewed by an experienced consultant with expertise in diagnosing a wide range of medical conditions.
During your consultation, you'll have the opportunity to discuss your symptoms, medical history, and the reason for your scan. Your consultant will explain what the MRI scan is looking for, answer any questions you may have, and ensure you understand what to expect before your appointment.
Throughout your care, you'll receive clear communication and compassionate support from a dedicated clinical team.
Following your MRI scan, your images will be reviewed by an experienced radiologist before a detailed report is sent to your consultant.
Your consultant will explain your results clearly and discuss any next steps with you. If further investigations or treatment are recommended, your care will be coordinated efficiently to minimise delays and ensure you receive the support you need.
An MRI scan is a diagnostic imaging test that uses a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of your body. Unlike X-rays and CT scans, MRI does not use ionising radiation.
MRI scans are particularly effective at examining soft tissues, including muscles, ligaments, tendons, nerves, the brain, spinal cord, and internal organs. They also provide detailed images of joints, bones, and blood vessels, making them an important tool for diagnosing many different conditions.
Because MRI produces highly detailed images, it can often detect problems that may not be visible using other imaging techniques. This helps your consultant make an accurate diagnosis and recommend the most appropriate treatment for your condition.
The cost of a private MRI scan can vary significantly based on factors such as which body part or parts you need scanned and what symptoms are being investigated.
We recognise that cost is a significant consideration when exploring medical imaging options. If you're curious about how much a private MRI scan costs, contact our team directly and they can provide you with a personalised quote.
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.
Your consultant may recommend an MRI scan to investigate symptoms that require a more detailed assessment than a physical examination alone.
Common reasons for having an MRI scan include:
MRI scans are also commonly used to investigate symptoms affecting the brain, spine, pelvis, abdomen, and musculoskeletal system. Your consultant will explain why an MRI scan has been recommended and how it can help diagnose or monitor your condition.
When you arrive for your appointment, a member of our imaging team will explain the procedure and answer any questions before your scan begins.
You'll be asked to remove any metal objects, such as jewellery, watches, glasses, or hearing aids. You'll also be asked about any medical implants, including pacemakers, surgical clips, or joint replacements, as these may affect whether an MRI scan is suitable for you.
During the scan, you'll lie on a padded examination couch that moves slowly into the MRI scanner. The scanner is open at both ends and remains well lit throughout the examination.
It's important to remain as still as possible while the images are being taken, as movement can affect image quality. The scanner makes a series of loud tapping and knocking sounds, but you'll usually be provided with earplugs or headphones to make you more comfortable.
Although the radiographer operates the scanner from a separate room, they'll be able to see and hear you throughout the examination. You'll also be given a buzzer to press if you need assistance at any point.
Most MRI scans take between 20 and 60 minutes, depending on the part of the body being examined.
Most MRI scans require very little preparation.
In many cases, you can eat, drink, and continue taking your usual medication before your appointment. However, if your scan requires a contrast dye or specific preparation, you'll receive detailed instructions beforehand.
Because MRI scanners use a powerful magnetic field, it's important to let your clinical team know if you have any implanted medical devices, metal fragments, or if you think you may be pregnant.
Following any preparation instructions carefully helps ensure your scan can be carried out safely and produces the clearest possible images.
MRI scans are used to investigate a wide range of medical conditions affecting different parts of the body.
They can help diagnose:
MRI scans are also used to monitor existing conditions, assess how well treatment is working, and help consultants plan surgery where appropriate.
Once your scan has finished, you'll usually be able to leave the hospital straight away and continue with your normal daily activities.
If you've had a contrast injection, your clinical team will provide any additional aftercare advice before you leave.
Your MRI images will be carefully reviewed by a specialist radiologist before a detailed report is sent to your consultant. Your consultant will then discuss the findings with you, explain what they mean, and recommend any further investigations or treatment if required.
If your results indicate that additional diagnostic tests are needed, your consultant will ensure these are arranged promptly so your care can continue without unnecessary delays.
When you choose to go private with Circle Health Group, you can expect:
Going private for healthcare provides faster access to a vast range of treatment options, greater flexibility in choosing specialists, and more personalised care.
To book a consultation to discuss MRI scans with a specialist 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.
If you already have a referral for an MRI scan, call us and we will help you arrange one.
If you would like to self-refer for an MRI scan, this is possible in some instances. Give us a call and we’ll be able to tell you whether self-referral is an option, and if not we can help you get a referral from a GP or specialist.
Reception: 020 7780 2400
Mon-Sat: 8am-8pm
No on-site parking. Paid street parking available.
