Contact number: 020 7806 4030
What is a CT scan?
A CT scanner is a large, doughnut-shaped machine that rotates around the body, taking multiple X-ray images from different angles. These images are processed by a computer to create detailed cross-sectional pictures of the area being examined. Unlike a standard X-ray, which produces a flat, two-dimensional image, CT scanning creates three-dimensional images that allow doctors to examine individual layers of tissue in detail.
CT scans can be used to examine virtually any part of the body, including the head and brain, chest and lungs, abdomen and pelvis, spine, and musculoskeletal system. Some scans are performed with a contrast dye injected into a vein, which helps highlight blood vessels and certain types of tissue. Your radiographer will advise you beforehand if contrast is needed for your scan.
Who should have a private CT scan?
A private CT scan may be recommended if you:
- Have been referred by a GP or consultant for further investigation of symptoms such as unexplained pain, breathlessness or weight loss
- Need imaging to monitor a known condition or assess the response to treatment
- Require pre-operative assessment or planning before a surgical procedure
- Want a diagnostic scan quickly without waiting for an NHS appointment
A referral from a GP or specialist is required for most CT scans at St John & St Elizabeth Hospital. If you do not currently have a referral, our on-site private GP service may be able to arrange one for you.
Weight-bearing CT Scans in London
If you are struggling with foot or ankle pain, your consultant or GP may recommend having a weight-bearing CT scan (WBCT). A weight-bearing CT, also known as a standing CT scan, is an advanced imaging technique that captures 3D images of the feet and ankles while your body is supporting its own weight. This can show true joint alignment and biochemical stress which traditional lying-down (supine) CTs may not show.
Weight-bearing CTs offer a more accurate diagnosis for conditions such as ankle instability, foot & ankle arthritis, bunions & forefoot disorders and ligament/ tendon tears. Our foot & ankle consultants work closely with our experienced radiographers to deliver rapid results to patients.
Pricing
from £835*
The price shown includes all hospital-related costs for your CT scan. It does not include consultation fees or any additional diagnostics that may be required.
*This price depends on the body part, number if images needed and the type of scan required.
How to pay for your test
If you’re… paying for yourself
Did you know you don’t need private medical insurance to come to St John & St Elizabeth Hospital? As a self-pay patient, you can access safe, outstanding quality health care at times to suit you.
For scans and tests, as well as to see most consultants, you’ll still need to be referred by a medical professional like your GP, but as a self-pay patient, the process is more straightforward. You won’t need authorisation from an insurance provider, and you’ll have greater choice of consultant and appointment times.
If you’re… insured
St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is approved by all major medical insurance companies. If you have a personal private health insurance policy, or your company provide it for you, you can use it to pay for your care from your initial consultation through to treatment, surgery and aftercare such as physiotherapy. Not all private health insurance plans cover the same things. It’s very important to check exactly what you are covered for with your insurance provider.
FAQs about CT Scans
The cost of a private CT scan depends on the number of areas that need scanning.
A private CT scan costs £835, in two areas £1,085, three areas £1,545 and three+ areas are £1,985 at St John & St Elizabeth Hospital.
- Registration: All patients are required to check-in and register at the imaging reception before any appointment. Please ensure you arrive early for your appointment to complete registration.
- Self-Funding Patients: The imaging administrative team can provide quotes for all examinations in the imaging department, if you would like to know the cost of your examination before your appointment, please contact us.
- Insured Patients: If you are insured please bring your insurance membership number and authorisation number with you to your imaging appointment. If you do not provide these details at the time of registration you may be asked to self-fund for the exam.
- Accessing Results: A copy of your report will be sent to your referring doctor within 48 hours of your appointment. If you are seeing your doctor within 48 hours please let one of the imaging team know so we can expedite this.
- Please note, we are unable to release imaging reports to you, as the patient until your doctor has had the opportunity to discuss the results with you.
You doctor should be able to provide you with a copy of the report, please contact us following your consultation if they are unable to do so
When your appointment is confirmed, you’ll receive full details of the date, time, and location. Preparation may involve fasting for a few hours beforehand – we’ll let you know if this applies. You can still drink water. Continue taking your usual medication unless advised otherwise. Please let us know about any allergies or medications, especially if you’ve had reactions to contrast dye before.
You’ll be welcomed by our team and may be asked to change into a hospital gown and remove jewellery. You’ll lie on a motorised table that moves through the scanner. The X-ray machine will rotate around your body, capturing images. You’ll need to stay very still and may be asked to hold your breath briefly. The scan is painless and our radiographer will communicate with you via intercom throughout.
For some scans, you may need an injection of contrast dye to help highlight certain areas, such as blood vessels. It’s injected via a small needle in your arm or hand. The dye contains iodine, which can occasionally cause an allergic reaction – please alert us if you’ve had a reaction in the past.
Most scans last between 20 and 30 minutes. Including preparation time, expect to be with us for around an hour.
If you didn’t receive contrast dye, you’re free to go straight away and resume normal activities. If you did receive dye, we’ll ask you to stay for 15 minutes for observation before removing the cannula. After that, you can eat, drink, and go about your day as normal.
Most patients feel completely fine and can resume normal activities immediately after the scan.
CT scans are generally very safe. If you feel unwell or notice a rash or discomfort after the dye injection, contact your GP or the imaging department. You can eat and drink as normal unless your doctor advises otherwise.
St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is located in St John’s Wood (NW8), easily accessible for patients from Hampstead (NW3), Kilburn (NW6) and across North and Central London.
By Tube: St John’s Wood station (Jubilee Line) is a 5-minute walk to and from St John & St Elizabeth Hospital.
By Bus: Routes 13, 46 and 113 stop near St John’s Wood Underground Station. Routes 139 and 189 stop on Abbey Road.
By Car: Finchley Road and Kilburn High Road provide direct routes from NW3 and NW6.