Prostate Screening in Dorchester

A Prostate Screening or Prostate Health Check is a simple screening designed to identify early signs of prostate conditions, including prostate cancer, often before symptoms develop.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK, but when detected early it is highly treatable. A prostate health check can provide reassurance or help identify concerns at a stage where treatment options are most effective.

Prostate health check packages at The Winterbourne Hospital

We offer three prostate health check packages, each providing a different level of assessment depending on your needs. These packages are available to self-paying patients only and will not be covered by private medical insurance.

The Essential package (£199) is a GP-led screening and includes a consultation, PSA and wellbeing blood tests, a physical examination, urine testing, a review of your medical and family history, and a detailed medical report.

The Specialist package (£380) is led by a consultant urologist and includes a specialist consultation, PSA and wellbeing blood tests, a full prostate assessment, urine testing, urinary flow rate measurement, a symptoms questionnaire, a review of your medical and family history, and a detailed medical report.

The Advanced package (£1,200) offers the most comprehensive assessment. It includes a consultation with a consultant urologist, PSA and wellbeing blood tests, a full prostate examination and assessment, urine testing, urinary flow rate measurement, a symptoms questionnaire, and a prostate MRI scan with contrast. This package also includes two hospital visits, including a consultant follow-up appointment, with a combined medical and imaging report.

For more information about our packages, and to book a prostate screening, call 0330 029 9468.

Why these tests matter:

• The PSA Blood Test measures levels of prostate-specific antigen, a protein produced by the prostate. Elevated levels can be an early indicator of prostate cancer or other prostate conditions.
• The MRI Prostate Scan with Contrast provides detailed imaging of the prostate, helping to identify suspicious areas and differentiate between aggressive and non-aggressive conditions. This can reduce the need for unnecessary biopsies and improve diagnostic accuracy.

Should you require further specialist advice following your screening, we can arrange a direct referral with one of our expert urologists at The Winterbourne Hospital.

 

When should you consider a prostate health check?

You may wish to consider a prostate health check if you are over the age of 45, or earlier if you have risk factors such as a family history of prostate cancer.

 

What symptoms should I look out for?

Prostate issues can develop gradually, and early signs are often easy to overlook. If you're experiencing any of the following symptoms, it may be time to consider screening:

• Frequent urination, especially at night
• Difficulty starting or stopping urination
• Weak of interrupted urine flow
• A feeling that your bladder isn't fully empty
• Pain or burning during urination or ejaculation
• Blood in urine or semen
• Discomfort in the lower back, pelvis, or hips
• Erectile difficulties or unexplained fatigue

These symptoms don't always indicate a serious condition, but they do warrant professional attention.

 

What happens during a prostate health check at The Winterbourne Hospital?

Your appointment begins with a consultation, during which your clinician will discuss your medical history, family history, lifestyle factors, and any symptoms or concerns you may have.

Blood tests, including a PSA (prostate-specific antigen) test, are used to help assess prostate health. Depending on the package selected, additional assessments may include urine testing, measurement of urinary flow, and completion of a symptom questionnaire.

In some cases, your GP or consultant may also perform a prostate examination, known as a digital rectal examination (DRE). This involves gently inserting a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to assess the size, shape, and texture of the prostate and check for any abnormalities. The examination is brief and may feel slightly uncomfortable, but it should not be painful.

If you choose the Advanced package, a prostate MRI scan may be performed to provide detailed images of the prostate. All results are carefully reviewed, and you will receive a clear medical report outlining the findings. If further tests or follow-up are required, our team will guide you through the next steps.

Preparation and tips:

• Prior to the appointment: It is best to avoid strenuous exercise, ejaculation, and anal sex for 48 hours before your blood test, as these may temporarily affect the accuracy of results. You may eat and drink as normal.
• Clothing: Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.
• Information: Bring a list of any medications you are currently taking.
• Health History: Be prepared to discuss your family medical history.

 

How to book prostate screening at The Winterbourne Hospital?

To book your Prostate Health Check Package, please call 0330 029 9468.

Please let our friendly team know you are interested in booking our a Prostate Screening and they will assist you in scheduling your appointment.

 

Payment Options

The cost of our Prostate Health Check Packages is:

• The Essential Package - £199
• The Specialist Package - £380
• The Advanced Package - £1,200

Accessing private healthcare is easier than you might think, whether you choose to pay directly or use private medical insurance.

If you are paying for yourself, you can choose to pay in full or choose to spread the cost of your treatment - 0% finance options available (subject to eligibility - T&Cs apply).

If you have insurance, we can arrange direct settlement with your insurance provider, although you should check in advance to see if your treatment is covered. For more information, visit our private medical insurance page.