Frequently Asked Questions
What Is an Ultrasound?
An ultrasound scan, sometimes called a sonogram, is a procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to create an image of part of the inside of the body (NHS). It is often performed laying down or sitting up-right by a trained medical professional.
What Does an Ultrasound Diagnose?
Ultrasound is a very effective tool for looking at all the major organs and structures within the body.
- Headaches
- Tumors
- Injuries
- Development Anomalies
- Dementia
- Infections
However, it is not the best tool for looking at gas filled structures like bowel or lungs and cannot view through bone so would not be used to assess the brain. For this, we recommend an MRI scan instead.
Can I Get an Ultrasound without a referral?
You do not need a referral for an Ultrasound with Vitalscan. However, if you have already seen your doctor and you wish to make an appointment because of discussions with them we would recommend that a referral is requested simply because it may give clinical information to help us with your examination.
Is Ultrasound Safe?
Ultrasound is completely safe and uses no radiation or x-rays. We only operate Ultrasound by qualified practitioners with regularly maintained and calibrated machines. We also use higher quality gels with the machine, so that the sound waves can travel through your skin and into your tissues. The energy from the sound waves is used to create an image of your tissues.
Why Pay Privately For An Ultrasound?
Paying for an Ultrasound gives you greater control over of your healthcare as you skip NHS ques, select dates that are convenient for you and gain access to the latest technology in healthcare. This ensures you gain greater accuracy and faster care.
How Long Does The Ultrasound & Report Take?
An ultrasound scan takes between 10 – 15 minutes. You will get the report either on the day or at latest within 3 days if it requires specialist attention. All details are held privately, securely for you to access directly from our online portal. We can also email the report to you with a secure link.
Can I Request an Ultrasound on The NHS?
Yes, the NHS can offer you an Ultrasound, but it takes much longer. This runs the risk of your condition worsening due to the delay. The process to gain an Ultrasound with the NHS starts with getting an appointment with your GP and then a GP agreeing to refer you for an Ultrasound. The GP may suggest pain medicine such as ibuprofen as short term treatment, but this does not identify the root cause to identify the best treatment.
What If We Find Something Wrong?
If we find something within the report, we will contact you or your GP to accelerate your healthcare journey. You will have complete access to the report and findings.
How Much Is a Private Ultrasound Scan?
An Ultrasound with Vitascan costs £175 – no additional costs or surprises.
In the UK, the cost of a 1 part scan and report varies between £250 – £750 depending on the centre, location and complexity. There are often additional charges for results and reports within 1 week. Further charges are also made for sharing your report on a CD or digital file.
No GP Referral Required
Fixed Prices
Secure Report Access
Turnaround Within Days
- No GP Referral Required
- Fixed Prices
- Secure Report Access
- Turnaround Within Days
