MRI scan waiting times in England

MRI scan waiting times refer to how long people typically wait for an NHS magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan after being referred for diagnostic imaging. Waiting times vary across England and depend on local NHS capacity, referral urgency, and demand for diagnostic services.

This page provides independent, factual information about NHS MRI scan waiting times in England. It explains how MRI referral pathways work, typical waiting time ranges, and why waiting times differ depending on where people live.

What is an MRI scan?

An MRI scan is a diagnostic imaging test that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of organs, tissues and structures inside the body. MRI scans are commonly used to help diagnose a wide range of conditions and to support treatment planning.

MRI scans are provided through NHS hospitals and diagnostic centres. Access to an MRI scan usually requires a referral from a GP, hospital consultant or another qualified healthcare professional.

This website does not provide medical advice or diagnostic guidance. If you have questions about an MRI scan, you should speak to a qualified healthcare professional.

How NHS MRI referral pathways work

In England, NHS MRI services are delivered by hospitals and diagnostic providers commissioned locally. Referral routes and access arrangements can vary between areas.

In general, the process includes:

• Referral for an MRI scan by a healthcare professional
• Scheduling of the scan based on clinical priority
• Imaging carried out at an NHS hospital or diagnostic centre

MRI referrals may be classified by urgency, which can affect waiting times. Services are commissioned locally by Integrated Care Boards (ICBs), meaning availability and capacity differ across regions.

Typical NHS MRI scan waiting times

Published NHS diagnostics data indicates that MRI scan waiting times in England vary by area and by clinical urgency.

In many areas:

• Routine MRI scan waiting times range from several weeks to a few months
• Urgent MRI scans are prioritised and may be carried out more quickly

Waiting times can fluctuate due to scanner availability, staffing levels, and overall demand for diagnostic imaging. Actual waiting times for individuals may vary depending on clinical need and local circumstances.

Why MRI scan waiting times vary by area

MRI scan waiting times differ across England for several reasons, including:

• Availability of MRI scanners and trained staff
• Local demand for diagnostic imaging
• Differences in commissioning arrangements
• Pressures on hospital diagnostic services

Because MRI services are organised locally, waiting times can vary significantly between towns, regions and NHS trusts.

MRI scan waiting times by town and area

MRI scan waiting times are not the same everywhere. Local NHS hospitals and diagnostic services may have different waiting lists depending on capacity and demand.

This website provides town-specific pages showing estimated MRI scan waiting times based on published NHS data, helping users understand how waiting times vary across England.

Browse MRI scan waiting times by county and town

Select a county to view available towns. Town pages include published diagnostics data and service guidance.

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