Our staff will be able to help you decide which scan is most appropriate for you and whether you need a referral from your GP or specialist. Most of our scans do not need a referral but we do encourage you to inform your doctor that you are coming to us for a scan.

We will let you know how much time to allow for your visit and book an appointment at a time convenient to you.

We will then write to you enclosing:

• Confirmation of your appointment time
• Travel information and a map
• Details about any preparations necessary before you come in for the scan
• A short medical questionnaire that you will need to complete and return to us before your visit.

NB:Please let us know if you are diabetic, asthmatic or have any allergies or kidney problems.

We normally ask you to arrive 15-20 minutes before the time your scan has been booked. This gives you time to relax and to answer any additional questions we may have about your medical history.

You will then be escorted to the scanning room. You may have to change into a gown in our changing room but for most scans you won't have to undress. Ladies will be asked to remove underwired bras, as the metal wiring distorts the scan images.

You will be asked to lie on a padded couch, normally on your back but for colon scans you will also be scanned on your front. Your head is not enclosed at any time which reduces any feeling of claustrophobia.

If your scan requires contrast dye to highlight the organs being examined, a cannula (small needle) will be put carefully into a vein in your arm and the dye injected through it during your scan. For virtual colonoscopy patients only, the colon will also be insufflated at this stage (further details virtual colonoscopy).

You will slowly pass under the open arch-shaped EBCT scanner while it takes a series of images. During this process, our radiographers will be able to see and hear you at all times and will help you through your scan. The actual time you spend under the scanner is short, 10-30 minutes, depending upon the type of scan you are having. We will do everything to ensure your scan is a comfortable experience and you will be able to relax afterwards with some refreshments in our patient lounge.

If you have had a heart scan and have not been referred by your doctor, you will have a consultation with one of our doctors afterwards. This gives you the opportunity to discuss your results and ask any questions you may have. We will give you a written report and a CD of the scan images. With your permission, we also like to send a copy of both to your GP.

Results of all other scans will be sent to you within 24- 48 hours of your visit. We will send you a written report and a CD of the scan images and (preferably) also send a copy of both to your GP. If you have any questions, one of our doctors will be happy to speak with you on the telephone.

You will be free to leave the clinic once the scan has been completed. Two copies of the written report of your results will be sent directly to your doctor together with a CD of your images. The report is usually sent within 24 hours of your visit, depending upon the type of scan. You will need to arrange a follow-up appointment with your GP or specialist for interpretation of the scan results.