Clinically reviewed by Liz Marsh
MRI Clinical Lead
How much does a private MRI scan cost in London? 2025 price guide
An MRI scan is one of the most advanced medical imaging tools available today. It creates highly detailed images of the inside of your body and can help diagnose many different health conditions.
Why look into the cost of a private MRI scan in London? For the peace of mind that comes from not having to endure long NHS waiting lists. With rapid access to a private MRI scan in London and expert insights from our experienced Vista Health consultants, you can get to the bottom of your health concerns.
So, how much is an MRI scan in London? Read on to find out.
How much does a private MRI scan cost in London?
If you’re looking for a cheap private MRI scan in London, it’s important to understand how MRI scans are priced. MRI uses highly advanced technology and requires the skills of specialist healthcare professionals.
Consequently, the average price of a private MRI scan in London ranges from £249 to £1,000. The exact cost depends on the following five factors:
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Body part(s) being scanned
The cost of your private MRI scan in London depends on the body part(s) that need to be imaged eg your brain, spine, knee, abdomen, etc. or if multiple parts are being scanned in the same appointment. Different scans take different lengths of time so may incur different prices.
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Use of contrast
Contrast is a special dye that is injected into your body to improve the clarity of the images created. If you need contrast for your MRI scan, you will need to be monitored after your scan for at least 30 minutes to check that you do not develop an allergic reaction to the contrast – this is a rare complication.
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Clinic location
The location of a clinic affects its running costs, which has a knock-on effect on prices. At Vista Health, we are proud to offer one of the most affordable MRI scan prices in London, with prices starting from £249.
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Scan urgency
If you need a scan urgently i.e., on the same day, this will cost more than arranging a scan for a later date.
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Type of MRI scan
Private MRI scans of a single body part at Vista Health start from £249. However, a full body MRI scan costs more, starting at £765.
If you find being in enclosed spaces difficult, you may want to opt for an open upright MRI scan, with prices at Vista Health starting from £575.
NHS vs private MRI: what's the difference?
There are four main differences between NHS and private MRI scans.
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Waiting times
If you have an MRI on the NHS, you will be put on a waiting list. Although the NHS aims to ensure every patient receives a diagnostic test, such as an MRI scan, within 6 weeks, this doesn’t always happen.
In London, around 1 in 5 patients will not receive a diagnostic test within 6 weeks.
In contrast, private MRI scans can be arranged around your personal schedule in just a few days.
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Referral process
On the NHS, you need a referral from a healthcare professional to have an MRI. In some, but not all, cases, a GP can refer you directly. When this is not possible, your GP will refer you to a specialist doctor who can make an MRI scan referral.
At Vista Health, you often don’t need a referral from a healthcare professional to go for a private MRI scan in London. Instead, you can self-refer for some scans. If you do need a referral, you can book an appointment with one of our Vista GPs in just a few days.
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Technology and comfort
Given the constraints of the NHS budget, it’s not always possible for the NHS to keep up with the latest advances in MRI technology.
At Vista Health, we are proud to offer state-of-the-art MRI technology. This includes open upright MRI scans that provide greater comfort, especially if you experience claustrophobia.
Open, upright MRI scans are not routinely available on the NHS.
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Price transparency
MRI scans on the NHS are free. However, the benefits of a private MRI scan, discussed above, often make them a sound investment in your health and wellbeing.
Private MRI scan prices in London are widely advertised, so you can make a clear, informed decision about which provider to choose.
Tips for choosing a private MRI scan provider
Tip 1: Check their CQC rating
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) regulates all care providers in England. You can check the reports for your MRI scan provider.
Tip 2: Check their locations
Check if the provider offers MRI scans near you. Vista Health has conveniently located clinics nationwide for easy access wherever you live. In addition to our national offering of traditional MRI scanners, our open MRI scanners are located in Birmingham and London.
Tip 3: Check their waiting times
Ask providers about their average waiting time to access private MRI scans. At Vista Health, you can usually book a private MRI scan in London in a matter of days.
Tip 4: Check their online reviews
Online reviews from past customers can give you a good idea of the service quality of an MRI provider. At Vista Health, we are proud of our 4.5 star rating on TrustPilot.
Tip 5: Check their report turnaround
On the NHS, you can usually expect your results within 2 weeks. A reputable private provider should be able to produce your report more quickly. At Vista Health, we aim to provide you with your results within 3 working days.
Private MRI scan FAQs
Can I book a private MRI without a GP referral?
Yes, at Vista Health, you can often self-refer for an MRI scan. Some scans do require a referral, in which case we can arrange an appointment within days with one of our Vista GPs. On the NHS, you will need a referral from a GP or hospital doctor.
Is an MRI painful?
No, an MRI scan is a safe, non-invasive and pain-free procedure.
How long does it take to get results?
On the NHS, MRI scan results are usually provided within 2 weeks. But at Vista Health, we aim to provide you with your results within 3 working days.
Ready to discover where you stand with your health?
With Vista Health offering private MRI scans in London at our Waterloo, Ealing, Golders Green, Stratford and Enfield clinics, it is easy to access rapid MRI scanning on your schedule.
So, if you’re searching for a “Private MRI scan near me”, look no further than Vista Health.
To gain expert insights into your health, book your private MRI scan in London with us, or call our patient care team to find out more on 0333 200 2064.
Sources
https://www.hweclinicalguidance.nhs.uk/clinical-policies/open-mri/