Diagnostic Imaging Services
At Flex Health, we provide access to a full range of diagnostic imaging services across Yorkshire, giving patients and referring clinicians fast, clear answers about what’s really going on inside the body. From ultrasound scans and MRI to X ray and CT, our diagnostic imaging services help identify the cause of pain, injury or illness so that the right treatment plan can begin without delay.
While our imaging tests themselves are carried out by our trusted specialist imaging partners, our team coordinates the referrals and can liaise directly with the relevant consultants and radiologists – so whether you’re a self-funded patient or referred through your private medical insurance provider, you have one point of contact from booking through to results.
What Is Diagnostic Imaging?
Diagnostic imaging – sometimes called diagnostic medical imaging – covers a range of medical imaging tests used to produce detailed images of the inside of the body. These imaging tests allow consultants to investigate symptoms, diagnose conditions, monitor existing medical conditions, and plan appropriate treatment with clinical confidence, rather than guesswork.
Different scans use different technology to produce images of different body parts, tissues and organs – from soft tissue structures and blood vessels to bone density and internal organs. Some use sound waves, some use radio waves and strong magnetic fields, and some use a small, carefully controlled dose of radiation. Whichever test is right for you, every scan is a safe procedure carried out by fully trained, experienced professionals, with your comfort and patient experience front of mind throughout.
Diagnostic Imaging Services We Offer
Flex Health offers access to the following diagnostic imaging services, delivered through our network of specialist partners across Yorkshire.
Ultrasound Scans
Ultrasound imaging works by sending high frequency sound waves through the body, capturing real-time detail of soft tissue, internal organs and blood flow as they move. It’s one of the most versatile and widely used imaging tests available, helping investigate everything from soft tissue structures, tendons and joints to abdominal organs, blood vessels and lymph nodes. Because there’s no radiation risk, ultrasound is often the first imaging test considered when investigating a new symptom.
MRI Scans
An MRI scan (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves – rather than radiation – to produce highly detailed, high resolution images of soft tissue, joints, the brain and spinal cord. Patients lie within the MRI scanner, a large tube that captures cross-sectional images from multiple angles, giving consultants an exceptionally clear picture of soft tissue structures that other scans can’t always show. MRI is frequently used to investigate joint and ligament injuries, back and spinal problems, and neurological symptoms, helping identify the precise cause of pain before a treatment plan is confirmed.
X-Ray Scans
X-ray remains one of the fastest and most accessible imaging tests for investigating bones and joints. Using a low, carefully controlled dose of radiation, X-ray scans produce clear images that help consultants detect fractures, joint degeneration and a range of other medical conditions affecting the skeleton. Many patients are able to access X-ray scans on the same or following day as their referral, making it a valuable first step when a quick diagnosis is needed.
CT Scans
A CT scan (Computed Tomography) combines a series of X-ray images taken from different angles to build a detailed, three-dimensional picture of the body. CT is particularly useful for investigating internal organs, blood vessels including the coronary arteries, and complex injuries where more detail is needed than a standard X-ray can provide. It’s a quick and safe procedure.
How to Access Our Diagnostic Imaging Services
One of the things our patients value most about Flex Health’s diagnostic imaging services is how simple we make the process. Although each scan is carried out by one of our specialist third-party imaging partners, you never need to manage that relationship yourself. Our diagnostic imaging services Yorkshire patients can access are designed to make the process as straightforward as possible.
You can access our diagnostic services in several ways:
- GP referral – if your GP has referred you for a scan, our team can take care of arranging the appointment and liaising with the imaging provider on your behalf.
- Self refer – as a private patient, you don’t always need a GP referral. In many cases you can self-refer directly to one of our Flex Health physiotherapists, who will assess whether an imaging test is appropriate and help organise the scan for you.
- Private medical insurance – we’re happy to liaise directly with your insurance provider, but you’ll need to check with them first whether your policy covers the specific scan you require and get any pre-authorisation in place before we can proceed.
- Self-funded – for patients without insurance, we can arrange your scan on a self-funded basis. Payment for the scan itself goes directly to the imaging provider, and our team will make sure the costs are clear before you go ahead.
Why Choose Flex Health for Diagnostic Imaging?
At Flex Health, we are proud to be Yorkshire’s leading provider of physiotherapy and occupational health services, and we’ve built our diagnostic imaging services around the same principles: expert care, fast access and a joined-up patient experience. This approach makes Flex Health a trusted choice for diagnostic imaging services Yorkshire patients can access with confidence.
Rather than leaving you to navigate referrals and availability on your own, our team can help you coordinate the process – so that your scan, your report and your next steps all move forward smoothly.
Once your results are ready, we work together to explain what’s been detected and agree the right treatment plan, whether that means further investigation, a referral on to a specialist, or moving straight into rehabilitation.
Every scan we arrange is carried out to the highest clinical standards, using modern equipment and imaging procedures that produce high-quality, high-resolution images. And because we understand that having a scan can be a stressful experience, we make sure every patient is properly informed whether it’s their first MRI or a routine follow-up scan. Our diagnostic imaging services Yorkshire patients rely on are delivered with their comfort and experience in mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a GP referral for a scan?
Not always. Many of our diagnostic imaging services are available to self-referring private patients, without the need to go through your GP or the NHS first. If you’re unsure which route is right for you, our team can advise.
Will my private medical insurance cover the cost?
In most cases, yes. We work with the major insurance providers, but we recommend you confirm cover and authorisation with them directly before your appointment, so there are no surprises.
Are diagnostic imaging tests safe?
Yes. Every scan we arrange is a safe procedure carried out by trained, experienced professionals. Some tests, such as X-ray and CT, involve a small, carefully controlled dose of radiation; others, such as MRI and ultrasound, involve no radiation risk at all. Your consultant will always explain any risk involved before proceeding.
How quickly can I be seen?
We know how important it is to get answers quickly. Depending on the scan and the reason for referral, we can often arrange appointments within days, and always aim to see patients as promptly as possible across our different locations.
What happens after my scan?
Your images are reviewed by a radiologist, and the results are shared with your referring Flex Health professional. Our team will then talk you through what’s been found and agree the right next steps, whether that’s further investigation, specialist referral, or starting treatment.
Get in Touch
To find out more about our diagnostic imaging services, or if you need our physiotherapy or occupational health services, contact our team today.