My Medical Gateway Blog

Struggling with NHS delays for diagnostic tests to book an MMG treatment in Europe? This guide simplifies how to book private diagnostic tests in the UK affordably and efficiently, offering fast results to meet EU hospital requirements. Learn how to bypass NHS waitlists with same-day appointments, 24–48 hour results, and seamless sharing of confidential reports with EU hospitals. 

At My Medical Gateway (MMG), we understand that timely access to diagnostic tests – whether blood tests or scans – is crucial for making a booking on our platform. 

After all, when you book one of our hospitals in the European Union for treatment, they will always require tests from you to confirm your diagnosis. One of the big advantages offered by MMG is the time you will save securing your remote diagnosis from your chosen hospital. 

Sadly, for the millions of people on an NHS waitlist for treatment, the NHS will not share your diagnostic tests with an EU or non-UK private healthcare provider. This guide will walk you through the process of obtaining fresh tests privately, easily and affordable, including key UK providers, pricing, and how quickly you can expect results.  

Why Choose Private Diagnostics?  

Private diagnostic services offer several advantages over NHS pathways:  

• Faster access – Avoid long waiting lists and get same-day or next-week appointments.  
• Convenience – Many providers offer at-home blood tests or scans at local clinics.  
• Self-referral – No GP referral is needed for most private tests.
• Comprehensive reporting – Receive detailed, patient-friendly results, often with clinician consultations, and have them sent (with your consent) straight to your chosen hospital in the EU in complete confidence. 

Booking Private Blood Tests

Here are the options:

1. At-Home Blood Testing (Postal Kits)
   • Companies like Thriva (get your MMG discount code here) provide finger-prick or venous blood test kits delivered to your home. Tests cover general health, hormones, vitamins, and chronic conditions (e.g., diabetes, cholesterol).  
   • Process: Order online → collect sample → return via post → receive digital results in 2–5 days.
   • Cost: £50–£180 (e.g., vitamin D test from £59, full hormone panel £149).
2. Clinic-Based Blood Tests
   • For more complex tests (e.g., tumour markers, hormone profiles), private clinics like Our Private Doctor offer venous blood draws with GP consultations:  
     • Cost: £250 for consultation + £375+ for tailored tests.
     • Results: Typically 3–7 days, with a follow-up review.

Booking Private Scans (MRI, X-rays, Ultrasounds)

1. Scan.com – Self-Referral Scans (get your MMG discount code here)
   • A leading provider for MRI, CT, and ultrasound scans without GP referral:  
     • Process: Book online → clinician call within 2 days → scan appointment → results in 7–10 days.
     • Cost (indicative):
       • MRI scan: single body part from £370
       • Ultrasound: £80–£180.
       • CT scan: from £280
2. Private Hospitals
   • Hospitals like Cleveland Clinic London offer advanced imaging with rapid turnaround:  
     • MRI/CT scans: Same/next-day appointments, results in 24–48 hours.
     • Price: from £325 (varies by scan type).
3. Community Diagnostic Centres (CDCs)
   • The UK government has expanded private-run CDC to reduce NHS backlogs. These offer:  
     • X-rays, ultrasounds, and ECGs at competitive rates.
     • No GP referral needed for self-paying patients.  

How Long Does It Take to Get Results?

• Blood tests: 2–7 days (postal kits may take longer).
• Scans: Same-day (pregnancy ultrasounds) to 10 days (MRI/CT).
• Private hospitals: Often 24–72 hours for urgent cases.

Key Tips for Booking Private Tests

1. Check accreditation – Ensure labs are CQC-registered (e.g., Thriva, Scan.com).
2. Compare prices – Scan.com and private hospitals often list costs upfront.
3. Ask about follow-ups – Some providers include post-scan consultations. 

Final Thoughts

Whether you need a quick blood test or an MRI, private diagnostics in the UK provide fast, flexible options. Companies like Thriva, Scan.com, and Cleveland Clinic London make it easier than ever to take control of your health – without waiting.  

For MMG Platform Users travelling to one of our EU hospitals for treatment, we have arranged discounted diagnostic tests through partners like Scan.com and Thriva.  Ready to book? Explore your options today!  And remember, if you need any help with diagnostic tests for medical travel contact MMG’s support team on 0161 9600 700 for guidance.