Preparing for your scan
Follow the instructions in your appointment letter. Some examinations require specific preparation.
Preparation informationDIRECT MEDICARE
Your NHS-funded appointment
Information for patients referred for an NHS-funded ultrasound examination with Direct Medicare.
NHS-funded · Eligible referrals only
From referral to results
01
Your clinician refers you
Your GP or authorised clinician determines whether a referral is appropriate and submits it through the applicable NHS pathway, including e-RS where commissioned.
02
Your referral is reviewed
Eligibility and service suitability are checked. A referral does not itself guarantee an appointment or particular clinic.
03
Your appointment is arranged
Booking follows the approved referral and scheduling process. Follow the information sent to you; there is no direct website self-booking.
04
Scan, report and follow-up
Your examination and report are managed through the relevant clinical pathway. Your referring clinician remains an important point of contact for discussing results and next steps.
Practical help
Accessibility and interpreters
Tell us about communication, accessibility or interpreter needs so appropriate arrangements can be considered.
Request supportChange an appointment
Contact the team using your appointment details. Do not submit clinical information through general enquiries.
Contact detailsImportant: NHS-funded examinations covered by the commissioned service are free to eligible patients. You are not required to purchase a private examination. If you have urgent symptoms, seek appropriate urgent medical advice rather than relying on this website.