Get fast access to private MRI scans delivered by experts at our private hospital
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is one of the most advanced diagnostic tools available, providing highly detailed images of your body’s internal structures without the use of radiation.
At The Sloane Hospital, you can access private MRI scans in Beckenham, helping diagnose a wide range of conditions quickly and accurately. We are conveniently located in Beckenham and easily accessible from Bromley and the surrounding areas.
You may choose private MRI scanning because you want answers without delay. Waiting for imaging can be stressful and anxiety inducing, particularly when symptoms are affecting your daily life. Our service is designed to offer prompt appointments, expert interpretation and a calm, supportive hospital environment.
MRI scnning is commonly used to investigate musculoskeletal problems, neurological symptoms, spinal conditions, joint pain and internal abnormalities. Your scan will be reviewed by an experienced consultant radiologist, ensuring your results are accurate and clearly explained.
At The Sloane Hospital, your MRI scan is delivered as part of a consultant-led diagnostic service. You will benefit from modern imaging technology, experienced radiographers, and specialist radiologists who interpret your results with precision. Your care is designed to be efficient and reassuring, with clear communication at every stage. From your initial booking through to receiving your results, you will be supported by a team focused on delivering high-quality, patient-centred care.
An MRI scan is a non-invasive imaging test that uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of your body. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, MRI does not use ionising radiation, making it a safe option for many patients, including those who may require repeat imaging.
During the scan, you will lie on a motorised table that moves slowly into the scanner. The machine captures high-resolution images of soft tissues, including muscles, ligaments, nerves, the brain and internal organs.
The scan itself is painless, although the machine can be noisy and you may feel slightly enclosed. Our team will explain the process clearly and support you throughout. If you feel anxious, options such as reassurance, music or mild sedation can be discussed.
The cost of a private MRI scan at The Sloane Hospital depends on the type of scan, the area of the body being examined and whether contrast dye is 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.
Your doctor or specialist may recommend an MRI scan if your symptoms require detailed imaging to reach a diagnosis. MRI is often used when other tests, such as X-rays or ultrasound do not provide enough information.
Common reasons for MRI referral include:
MRI may also be used to assess soft tissue masses, internal organs and inflammatory or degenerative conditions.
Some patients choose to self-refer for reassurance or faster access to diagnosis. If you are unsure whether an MRI is suitable, our team can guide you before booking.
Below are answers to the most asked questions about MRI scans.
MRI scanners vary in size. The standard size of an MRI scanner is 60 centimetres wide. Larger MRI scanners, also known as wide-bore MRIs, are usually 70 centimetres wide.
Some people with claustrophobia find the prospect of having an MRI daunting, because it involves being in an enclosed space.
At Circle Health Group, we encourage people with claustrophobia to come to the department ahead of their scan to discuss their fears with their healthcare team. We are here to answer any questions and alleviate any concerns you might have about the process of the scan.
A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan usually lasts 15 to 90 minutes. This timeframe depends on the size of the area of your body being scanned and the number of images being taken.
The procedure is painless. You cannot feel the radio waves or MRI machine moving around you. You will hear the machine, but you won’t feel it working.
You should be able to eat, drink and take any medication as usual on the day of your scan, unless your consultant says otherwise.
Yes, in some cases. MRIs can determine if a tumour exists, and if it is benign (not cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). MRI scans can also show if cancer is spreading to other areas of your body.
Your doctor might be able to identify nerve damage on an MRI scan. However, nerve damage is usually found during a neurological examination and later pinpointed through an MRI scan.
You might be able to have a friend or family member in the room with you for moral support, if needed. Please ask your consultant about whether this is possible.
MRI technology is very safe. There are no known health risks associated with the magnetic field or the radio waves used by the machine.
Some people might be sensitive to the contrast agent used in some circumstances and develop an allergic reaction. However, all contrast agents are FDA-approved and safe.
A brain MRI can help doctors look for conditions that affect your brain, such as bleeding, swelling, tumours, infections, and damage from an injury or a stroke. It can also help doctors look for causes of headaches, which can occur for a vast range of reasons, including stress and eyesight problems.
An MRI scan is usually carried out as an outpatient procedure, which means you won't need to stay in hospital overnight. After the scan, you can return home and begin your normal activities immediately after.
If you have had a sedative for the scan, you will need to arrange for a friend or family member to drive you home from hospital, but after 24 hours the sedative effects will have worn off, and you can drive again.
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.
Reception: 0208 466 4000
Mon-Fri: 8am-9:30pm
Sat: 8am-3pm
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