MRI Scan: The Complete Guide (Updated 2025)

Intro

MRI scans are among the most powerful diagnostic tools available today. They provide clear, detailed images of soft tissue, organs, blood vessels, and bones without using radiation. Demand for MRI is rising across the UK, yet access remains limited on the NHS.

According to NHS England data, in November 2024, 400,862 MRI scans were carried out, a 6.9% increase on the previous year. Despite this, access remains pressured: as of January 2025, around 6% of people waited more than six weeks for an MRI (down from 26% the year before), with many patients still waiting 6-18 weeks depending on their local hospital. By contrast, a private MRI with GetScanned can often be booked within days.

This guide explains what an MRI is, what it can detect, how it works, NHS versus private wait times, and how you can arrange a scan quickly with GetScanned.

What is an MRI scan?

MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. It uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create highly detailed images of the body’s internal structures. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, MRI does not involve ionising radiation.

The technology was first developed in the 1970s and has since become one of the most widely used diagnostic tests worldwide. Today, MRI is particularly valued for its ability to reveal subtle differences in soft tissues that other scans cannot detect.

What does it show?

MRI can produce detailed images across nearly all areas of the body. It is especially useful for soft tissues that are difficult to visualise with other imaging techniques.

By body system, an MRI can show:

• Neurological (Brain & Spine):
  
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Stroke damage
  • Brain tumours
  • Disc herniation and spinal cord compression
• Musculoskeletal (Joints, Bones, Soft Tissues):
  
  • Ligament tears (ACL, meniscus)
  • Cartilage damage
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Stress fractures
• Cardiovascular:
  
  • Heart muscle damage after a heart attack
  • Heart valve disease
  • Aneurysms or blocked blood vessels
• Abdominal & Pelvic Organs:
  
  • Liver disease
  • Kidney tumours
  • Uterine fibroids
  • Prostate enlargement or cancer
• Oncology (Cancer detection & monitoring):
  
  • Early detection of tumours in many organs
  • Staging of known cancers
  • Monitoring treatment progress

Who might need one?

An MRI scan may be recommended by a GP or specialist, or chosen privately for reassurance.

You might need one if:

• You have unexplained pain, swelling, or neurological symptoms.
• Previous scans (X-ray, ultrasound, CT) were inconclusive.
• You are being monitored for a chronic condition.
• You have a family history of cancer or neurological disease.
• You are an athlete with a suspected soft-tissue injury.
• You want a proactive, preventive health check.
  

Self-referral is available with GetScanned, meaning you can arrange an MRI scan without needing a GP referral.

How does the scan work?

Step-by-step patient journey:

1. Booking: Choose your scan type, location, and date online. Complete a few health-related questions.
2. Medical referral: Connect with one of our GPs who will discuss your medical history and generate a referral for your scan.
3. Arrival: Complete a safety questionnaire covering implants, medical history, and pregnancy.
4. Preparation: Remove jewellery, metal objects, and sometimes change into a gown.
5. Positioning: Lie on a motorised bed that slides into the MRI scanner.
6. The scan: The machine creates images using magnets and radio waves. Loud knocking noises are common (ear protection provided).
7. Contrast dye (if needed): Some scans require a dye injection to highlight blood vessels or organs.
8. Completion: The scan lasts 15–60 minutes, depending on the body part.
9. Aftercare: You can usually resume normal activities immediately.

Preparation & Safety

Preparation tips:

• Wear loose clothing without zips or buttons.
• Avoid metal objects, watches, or underwire bras.
• Fast if instructed (usually only if contrast is needed).
  

Safety considerations:

MRI is safe for most patients, but it may not be suitable if you:

• Have a pacemaker or implantable defibrillator.
• Have cochlear implants or some types of metal clips/screws.
• Are in the first trimester of pregnancy (unless essential).
• Have severe claustrophobia (open MRI may be an option).
• Have tattoos with metallic ink (can cause skin heating).
  

Always discuss your history with the consulting GP and the clinic before the scan.

Results & Next Steps

• Images are reviewed by a consultant radiologist.
• Results are usually available within a few working days.
• A detailed report is shared with you and (if you choose) your GP or specialist.
• Outcomes may be:
  
  • Normal: No abnormalities found.
  • Abnormal: Findings require further investigation or treatment.
  • Incidental findings: Unexpected results not related to your symptoms but still relevant to your health.

NHS Wait Times vs Private Options

NHS waiting times for diagnostic scans have improved since their peak during the pandemic but remain challenging:

• 6% of patients waited longer than 6 weeks for an MRI in January 2025 (down from 26% in January 2024).
• The median wait across diagnostic tests was 2.6 weeks in November 2024.
• In some hospitals, MRI waits still extend to 6–18 weeks.
• The UK has just 8.6 MRI scanners per million people, compared with the EU average of 12.4, contributing to pressure.

Private option with GetScanned:

• Nationwide access to CQC-registered clinics.
• Book online without a GP referral.
• Appointments available within days.
• Results delivered in 3-5 working days, often sooner.
  

For patients seeking speed, certainty, and peace of mind, private MRI is often the preferred choice.

Cost & Booking with GetScanned

• Prices from £299, depending on body part and location.
• Self-referral available (no GP referral required).
• Nationwide coverage with CQC-registered clinics.
• Secure online booking and payment.
• Insurance can be accepted - requires pre-authorisation or that you check your policy.

Book your MRI scan today with GetScanned

Comparison Table: MRI vs CT vs X-ray

Checklist: What to Bring

• Comfortable clothing (no metal fasteners)
• Photo ID (in case required by the scan centre)
• List of current medications
• Any previous imaging results (if available)