How much does a brain MRI scan cost?

When looking for a Brain MRI scan, there's a few questions most people want to know. From where to get the best service, to what they can expect to pay for a brain scan.

We shall explore the cost of brain scans, what a brain scan can show, and the service you can expect to receive.

what is brain MRI Scan cost

How much is a private MRI Scan?

In the UK, the cost of a Private MRI scan can vary depending on several factors, such the body area to be scanned, the number of scans required, the type of MRI scan and the geographical location of the private centre offering the MRI service

As such, the cost of a Private MRI scan in the UK can range from £199 to £1,500 for 1 body area, with the national average cost of an MRI in the UK being £363

How much is a private brain scan in London?

There are various Brain MRI services available across London, and here are some of the costs:

Brain MRI Scan Cost in London*

*Prices are correct as per 28-Nov-2022

At MRI Plus, we aim to provide quickly accessible and affordable services, so we offer our Brain MRI scan from £199. We offer the same price across our clinics, regardless of geographical location and chosen date or time.

Why would a neurologist recommend an MRI of the brain?

Neurologists and other healthcare specialists often refer patients for brain MRI scans, to ascertain whether there are any abnormalities inside the brain, such as:

  • Blood vessel abnormalities, such as aneurysms or stenosis
  • Brain diseases, such as multiple sclerosis or Alzheimer's disease
  • Degenerative conditions, such as Parkinson's disease or Huntington's disease
  • Developmental disorders, such as hydrocephalus or cerebral palsy
  • Epilepsy and other seizure disorders
  • Infections, such as abscesses or encephalitis
  • Inflammatory conditions, such as meningitis or encephalitis
  • Tumours and other abnormal growths in the brain or surrounding structures
  • Trauma to the brain, such as from a head injury

What to expect before, during and after your scan

Before your brain MRI scan

Before the procedure, you can expect to be asked some health screening questions about your health and family background. Some conditions, may stop or limit you from accessing this procedure, such as:

  • Cardiac pacemaker
  • Implanted electronic devices or electronic and magnetically activated implants
  • Artificial heart valves
  • Artificial limbs or metallic joint prostheses
  • Implanted drug infusion ports
  • Neuro and bone stimulators
  • Metals pins, screws, plates or surgical staples
  • Surgical clips
  • Infusion pump
  • Implanted nerve stimulators

You will also be asked if:

  • You have had recent surgery
  • You have a history of any renal (kidney) problems
  • If you suffer from claustrophobia, as you may require more time getting acquainted with the machine.

Your form will be reviewed to determine whether it is safe to go ahead with the scan

During your brain MRI scan

  • When you arrive, you will be provided with a gown to change into, and asked to remove all electrical and removable metal items such as jewellery, watches and phones, and place them in the locker provided.
  • During the scan, expect to hear repeated electronic beeping and loud humming.
  • You will also be asked to keep still to improve the accuracy of results.
  • The radiographer will speak to you through a radio and update you on the progress of your MRI scan. In case you feel any discomfort, you may press the call button to signal to the radiographer.

After your scan

  • There is no recovery period after the MRI scan. You may immediately go about your regular routine for the day.
  • If you have taken any medications that may make you drowsy, such as sedatives to help you feel calm during the procedure, please do not drive after your scan.

When can I receive my MRI results?

Most Private providers will offer a copy of your scan images immediately.

After the scan, most providers will provide a written report of the scan images, written by a radiologist. Reporting timescale varies between private providers.

At MRI Plus, the standard reporting time is 7 working days, offered on our Bronze package, or you can opt for Silver, Gold or Platinum for a report within 2 working days.

How can I pay for my Private MRI scan?

Payment options will vary between private providers.

At MRI Plus, we offer the following payment options when booking your Private MRI scan package online:

  • pay securely by credit or debit card online
  • submit your Private Health Insurance information and authorisation code
  • opt to spread the cost with a 0% interest payment plan (credit subject to status)

Why choose MRI Plus?

We offer Private MRI and Open MRI scans to patients self-funding or using private health insurance, and booking couldn't be easier:

  • Get an instant online quote, and choose from a range of packages to suit your needs
  • Refer yourself, so there's no need for a GP referral letter
  • Book online at a convenient time for you
  • Decide your own appointment date and time, using our live diary
  • Opt for a same-day MRI scan or book a date in advance
  • Pay securely by credit or debit card, submit your Private Health Insurance details, or choose to spread the cost with a Clearpay or Klarna interest-free payment option.

Booking your brain MRI scan

You can see the pricing options available for your chosen MRI scan, by using our handy MRI scan search bar to choose whether you would like an MRI or Open MRI and search for the body areas you would like scanned.

You will be able to see what locations and scan packages we offer, and our appointment availability before proceeding through to booking your MRI scan.

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