Hartlepool MRI Unit

Good to know: paying for scans and screening tests

• The provider must be registeredIt is a legal requirement that all providers of screening services in England are registered with the Care Quality Commission.
• Ask about the feesAre the fees clear? Is there a pressurising “book now for a reduced price” offer? Will the company charge extra to follow up results?
• Who follows up an abnormal resultOften a company only offers the test. If it finds something abnormal, it is up to you to seek advice, further investigation or treatment – and often the tests will need to be repeated by the NHS.
• False alarms happenFalse positive results are inevitable in screening. They lead to unnecessary worry, and to follow-up tests and investigations which may carry risks of complications.

This is general guidance for England, not information about this provider. Source: GOV.UK (UK National Screening Committee) – NHS and commercial health screening tests: important considerations. Checked 4 October 2026.