Can You Get a Full Body Scan on the NHS?

Getting a full body scan is an effective way to detect developing diseases or abnormalities in one simple procedure. Think of it like an MOT for your body. As preventative healthcare becomes more widely understood, full body scans are growing in popularity. However, access to these tests on the NHS is limited. In this article, we explain who can get a full body scan on the NHS and what to do if it’s not available to you.<.p>

What is a full body scan?

A full body scan is a comprehensive screening that uses advanced medical imaging techniques to produce high-quality images of the entire body. These scans provide detailed views of organs in the head and torso, as well as tissues and blood vessels throughout the body. Whole body scans can be useful for managing your health by offering an overall picture of your well-being. They can help diagnose conditions such as cancer and heart disease in their early stages, as well as detect a variety of other health issues or abnormalities.

There are different types of body scans available. Your GP or medical specialist can advise you on which one is most suitable for you and what to expect during the procedure.

Are full body scans available on the NHS?

In general, you can’t get a full body scan on the NHS. However, your GP may refer you to a hospital or diagnostic centre for a test such as an X-rays, CT scan, or MRI, but these will usually focus on a specific area of concern. You will typically need to meet certain criteria, such as symptoms or risk factors, to be referred. For example, you may be sent for a brain MRI if you have a persistent severe headache or experience sudden cognitive decline.

Full body scans, which are often used for general preventative purposes, are usually only available through the private sector. The exceptions are in emergency situations or high risk cases. For instance, a CT scan may be required following serious trauma, or a full body MRI might be used in high-risk cases with non-specific symptoms that could indicate multiple types of cancer.

Types of full body scan you can get

There are several types of full body scan to choose from, including:

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Scan
• Computed Tomography (CT) Scan
• Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) Scan
• Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scan
• Ultrasound

MRI scans and CT scans are two of the most common types of full body scan.

MRI scans

An MRI scan uses strong magnets and radio waves to generate detailed cross-sectional images of the inner structure of the body, including internal organs, tissues, and blood vessels. The machine consists of a horizontal, tube-shaped scanner through which patients are passed while lying on a moving flat bed.

MRI scans produce high-quality images and are commonly used to analyse most areas of the body. They are safe and non-invasive, although they can take longer and be more expensive than other imaging techniques. Because magnetic forces are used, you will need to remove any metal objects, such as piercings. MRI scans are not suitable for those with metallic implants. In some cases, contrasting agents may be used to highlight tissues and blood vessels, which can cause minor side effects like nausea or rashes.

CT scans

CT scans are another sophisticated form of medical imaging that combine x-rays with computer technology to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body. During the procedure, patients lie on a flat bed and pass through a doughnut-shaped scanner which houses a rotating x-ray beam and an image detector.

CT scans produce images of bones, organs, and blood vessels. They are non-invasive and fast, which makes them ideal for detecting fractures and trauma, for example after a vehicle accident. They can also help identify diseases like cancer and tumours. However, one key drawback of CT scans is that they use ionising radiation, which can be harmful in high doses. Although the radiation dose is generally low, CT scans are typically recommended when symptoms are present to ensure that benefits outweigh the potential risks.

The process for NHS scans

NHS scans are usually through a GP referral process. You can expect to follow these steps.

Visit your GP

You cannot directly book a medical scan on the NHS, so your first step will be to contact your GP. Your GP will assess whether further investigation is required based on your specific symptoms and medical history.

Discuss symptoms or concerns

In most cases, you’ll only be referred for an NHS scan if you have symptoms or issues that require further investigation, and a scan could help. Typically, your GP will guide the conversation towards the possibility of a scan if they determine it’s necessary.

Receive a referral to a specialist

If your GP is unable to treat your condition themselves, they will refer you to a specialist (e.g. cardiologist, urologist, or neurologist). Depending on your situation, your GP may arrange this for you and send you an appointment letter, or they may provide you with the details to book it yourself. Waiting times can vary based on availability and the urgency of your condition. Sometimes, you will need to be referred to a specialist before being referred for certain types of imaging.

Undergo initial diagnostic tests

Before having a scan, your GP or specialist may perform a series of other tests to assess your symptoms, decide if a scan is necessary, and determine the most appropriate type of scan. These tests can include:

• Basic physical examination
• Blood tests
• Urine tests
• Specialised tests, such as an endoscopy in the case of persistent stomach pains

Specialist decides on further imaging

Following the initial tests, the specialist will decide:

• Whether a scan is necessary
• Which type of scan is the most appropriate

In some cases, multiple scans may be required - for example, an x-ray followed by an MRI for more detailed imaging.

Schedule and attend the scan

Once a scan is recommended, your specialist will send a referral to a hospital or diagnostic center, which will then contact you to schedule an appointment. Booking is typically done via phone or the NHS online booking system.

Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive a confirmation along with preparation instructions, such as fasting before the scan if required.

Most NHS scans are straightforward and take between 10 minutes and an hour. A radiographer will explain the process before the scan, and once it is completed, you will be able to go home.

Receive results and follow-up

The scan images will be assessed by a radiologist, and the results will be sent to the doctor who referred you. This process can take a few weeks, though urgent cases (such as if you need cancer treatment) are fast-tracked. Your GP will discuss the findings and any next steps with you.

Private full body scans

Private full body scans differ from NHS scans in several ways. You do not need a GP or specialist referral, allowing you to bypass many of the steps required for NHS scans. These scans are typically used for preventative screening and can be booked directly, even if you have no symptoms, so you are in control of when and where you get referred for a scan.

Since there are no waiting lists, you can usually access a scan quickly, enabling faster detection of potential health issues. Plus, appointments are flexible to your schedule - you won’t receive a predetermined appointment via a letter in the post. Instead, you’re free to choose a time that works for you.

You also have the flexibility to choose your provider and the type of full body scan you wish to have. You’ll also be able to consult a medical professional beforehand as part of the full body scanning service, to ensure the scan is suitable for your needs.

Private full body MRI scans typically cost around £1500-£2500. Most private health insurance policies only cover full body scans if they are deemed medically necessary. If you are considering insurance coverage, check your policy details or speak with your insurer to explore your options.

Get a private full body MRI scan

You can easily book a full body scan through our quick and simple system. Just select a scanning centre in your preferred location and provide your details. One of our friendly, expert clinicians will then contact you for a pre-scan consultation. They will also be available to discuss the results with you once the scan is complete.

Sources used

• https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ct-scan/
• https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/mri-scan/
• https://www.england.nhs.uk/long-read/urgent-gp-direct-access-to-diagnostic-services-for-people-with-symptoms-not-meeting-the-threshold-for-an-urgent-suspected-cancer-referral/
• https://www.england.nhs.uk/cancer/early-diagnosis/screening-and-earlier-diagnosis/
• https://www.nhsinform.scot/tests-and-treatments/scans-and-x-rays/