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Understanding MRI Referrals: Self Referral vs GP Referral MRI
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Table of contents:
An MRI scan referral is a formal recommendation by a healthcare provider, usually a GP (General Practitioner), to undergo an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan. This referral is based on your symptoms, medical history, and the GP's assessment that an MRI is necessary for further diagnosis.
Cost of an MRI Referral
- Through a GP: In countries with public healthcare systems like the NHS in the UK, the referral itself might be free, but waiting times could be long. Private GP services may charge a consultation fee, which varies.
- Self-referral services (e.g., GetScanned): These services often include the charge for the referral with the scan cost itself. No extra charges for a referral are needed.
The MRI scan cost itself depends on the provider and location. Prices can range from £300 to £500 or more for an MRI scan, depending on the body part.
What Does an MRI Referral Look Like?
An MRI referral typically includes the following:
- The patient's details (name, age, contact information).
- Clinical symptoms and reason for the referral.
- Body area to be scanned (e.g., head, spine).
- Any relevant medical history.
- GP's details and signature.
- Any contraindications to getting a scan done (e.g. metal parts or devices which would prevent someone from entering the scanner).
Options for Getting an MRI Scan
- Traditionally through a GP: Your GP assesses your need and refers you to an MRI scan, usually through the public healthcare system (e.g., NHS), which might have longer waiting times.
- Self-referral services: These services allow you to self-refer and find a private scanning centre. This option allows people to proactively assess their health, especially if they have concerns or symptoms they want to investigate further, but may not yet have consulted a medical provider. You still need to discuss your results with a GP or doctor for proper assessment, but the process is quicker and usually incurs no extra fee.
What Happens During a Self-Referral MRI?
- Choose a Provider: Start by selecting a private clinic offering self-referral MRI services. Research pricing, location, and availability. You can choose a private clinic allowing self-referral with GetScanned.
- Book Your Appointment: Once you've chosen a provider, you can usually book online. No GP referral is needed, and you’ll provide basic health details to ensure the MRI is suitable for you.
- Free GP Referral (with GetScanned): GetScanned allows you to have a consultation call with one of our experienced GPs to suggest the right scan procedure for you.
- The MRI Scan: On the day of the scan, you'll lie in the MRI machine, which uses magnets and radio waves to create detailed images. The scan typically lasts 30-60 minutes.
- Reviewing Results: Your MRI results will be sent to you directly. It’s recommended to consult a GP or specialist to discuss and interpret the results for any necessary follow-up care.
Why You Need a GP Referral for an MRI
- Medical Expertise: A GP assesses whether an MRI is necessary.
- Contrast Agent Consideration: Some MRI scans require contrast agents, and a GP helps determine if it's safe for you.
- Special Conditions: Pre-existing medical conditions could affect your suitability for an MRI.
- Procedure Necessity: GPs ensure that other diagnostic options have been considered.
- Legal Requirements: In some regions, an MRI scan requires a formal referral for legal reasons.
How GetScanned Helps with a GP Referral
Booking a scan with GetScanned does not require any GP Referral before booking. We set up your call with one of our experienced GPs (included in the booking), and they advise and refer you for the right scan required.
Finding an MRI Scan Near You with GetScanned
GetScanned helps you locate a scanning centre based on your location. We provide multiple options, and you can compare nearby centres based on cost, availability, and type of scan.
Self-Referral MRI Scans: Benefits and Drawbacks
- Benefits: Speed, convenience, and less waiting time when using direct referral services.
- Drawbacks: Higher costs and potential lack of thorough medical oversight compared to a GP who integrates your scan with a broader diagnostic work-up (e.g., physical examination, blood tests).
When is a Self-referral MRI Not Recommended?
Self-referral is not advised when:
- A detailed medical examination is required.
- Correlation with medical history, blood tests, or other diagnostics is crucial.
- The condition might not require an MRI, leading to unnecessary costs or exposure.
GP vs. Self-Referral MRI: Which is Right for You?
- GP referral: Offers more medical oversight, and lower costs (if using public healthcare), but longer waiting times.
- Self-referral: Faster, but more expensive, and may need a more comprehensive diagnostic approach a GP provides.
Conclusion
When considering an MRI scan, the choice between a GP referral and self-referral services depends on several factors, including cost, urgency, and the need for comprehensive medical oversight. A GP referral typically ensures a more thorough evaluation of your health, integrating the scan results with your broader medical history, but it may involve longer waiting times.
On the other hand, self-referral services like GetScanned offer convenience and speed, though at a higher cost and with less direct medical oversight. It's important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks based on your specific situation to make an informed decision that aligns with your health needs.
Schedule Your MRI Scan Today: Opt for GP Referral or Self-Referral for Quick Results.
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Frequently asked questions
Do I need a GP-referral?
No prior GP-referral is required. Booking with us includes a GP phone consultation and referral. Shortly after booking you will be contacted by a GP from our team who will discuss your scan and provide a referral.
How long is an MRI scan?
MRI scans generally take a bit longer than other types of scans. Individual scans take 10-30 minutes depending on the body part being scanned, overall it can take anywhere from 15 minutes to 90 minutes. You do have to lay very still for an MRI and if there is movement the scan may need to be repeated which can add some additional time.
What’s included in my booking?
With your GetScanned booking, you will receive:
- A pre-scan phone consultation with a member of our medical team.
- A referral for the scan.
- Scheduling of a private MRI scan at your preferred scanning centre.
- Access to your written report by a radiologist.
- Access to your scan images (online and downloadable).
How much is a private MRI scan?
A private MRI scan cost varies depending on the part of the body being scanned and the location the scan is performed. Generally, a private MRI scan in the UK starts at around £350, and includes the scheduling, scan itself and results.
What’s the difference between an open and closed MRI?
Closed MRI machines are the traditional and first type of MRI. They are used more frequently because they provide higher quality images, however they aren’t ideal for certain types of scan or when the patient has limited mobility. Open or wide-bore MRI machines don’t involve lying in a tight cylinder, instead they have wider openings with more space and are therefore considered better if you suffer from claustrophobia. A standing MRI or upright MRI is a new type of open MRI that allows the patient to be in various different positions, including weight bearing positions. If you would prefer an open MRI please filter by MRI type to find an open MRI near you, but please be aware it is only available at certain locations.
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