Contact number: 020 7806 4030
Private MRI Scans in London
At St John & St Elizabeth Hospital, we offer fast access to private MRI scans in our advanced imaging suite in London. MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) uses a powerful magnet and radio waves to produce highly detailed images of the inside of the body — without using any radiation. It is particularly effective for diagnosing conditions affecting the spine, brain, joints and soft tissues, and is often used when X-rays or other scans haven’t provided clear answers.
You’ll be looked after by our experienced team of radiographers, who will guide you through the process and ensure you feel at ease throughout your visit. Once your scan is complete, it will be reviewed by a consultant radiologist — a specialist doctor trained to interpret MRI images — and a full report will be sent to your referring clinician, typically within 48 hours.
Reduced MRI scan times
Our MRI suite utilises Siemens ‘Deep Resolve’ AI software which reduces scan time and significantly improves image quality. This means clearer, faster results and a more comfortable experience for every patient. By using Deep Resolve, we can ensure even greater accuracy in diagnosis, particularly in complex or subtle cases, with no compromise on patient care.
Results in 48 hours
We understand how important it is to receive your results quickly. That’s why we aim to deliver all private MRI scan reports within 48 hours of your appointment. Once your scan is complete, a consultant radiologist will carefully analyse the images and prepare a detailed report, which will be securely sent to your referring doctor to support timely diagnosis and treatment planning.
How much does a private MRI scan cost?
from £710*
The price is dependent on the number of body parts scanned.
| £710 |
| £1,225 |
| £1,695 |
| £1,800 |
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.
Frequently asked questions about MRI scans
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
We use ‘Deep Resolve’, an advanced AI-powered technology from Siemens that enhances MRI image quality while reducing scan times. By using intelligent image reconstruction, Deep Resolve produces exceptionally clear and detailed images, helping detect even subtle abnormalities more accurately. At St John & St Elizabeth Hospital, we use Deep Resolve to ensure every private MRI scan is faster, more comfortable, and delivers the highest level of diagnostic precision.
MRI is a very safe procedure. However, if you have a pacemaker or certain surgical implants, like cochlear implants, you may not be eligible for the scan. If you’re unsure, please contact the imaging department to check your suitability before your appointmen
Once your MRI scan is confirmed, you’ll receive an appointment letter with all the details. On arrival at the hospital, you’ll complete a safety questionnaire and be asked about pregnancy, medical conditions, and any metal or electronic implants. These may not rule you out, but your radiographer needs to be aware to ensure your safety. You’ll also be asked about tattoos, especially if they’re in the area being scanned.
You’ll be welcomed by our team and may be asked to change into a hospital gown. We’ll provide earplugs, headphones, a cushion and a blanket. You’ll lie on a bed that slides into the scanner and can communicate with your radiographer via the headphones. You’ll be asked to stay as still as possible and may be asked to hold your breath briefly to ensure clear images. If you feel anxious at any point, you can press a call button and we’ll pause the scan.
In some cases, an injection of contrast dye may be required to get more detailed images, particularly of your blood vessels. This is given through a small needle in your arm or hand. The dye contains gadolinium, which is safe for most people but may occasionally cause an allergic reaction. Your radiographer will explain this before proceeding.
Most people can return to their normal activities straight away. If you’ve had contrast dye, the cannula will be removed before you leave. You can eat and drink as usual and get back to your day without any restrictions.