Clinical Referrals

In the past few years there has been a technological revolution in the field of CT scanning. Modern 16 channel multislice scanners are able to perform previously impossible or crude time-consuming examinations in a few minutes.

This new technology provides a powerful diagnostic tool capable of the early diagnosis of three main causes of death, namely coronary artery disease, lung and colon cancer. The early diagnosis of these conditions provides an unparalleled opportunity for early intervention when cure or prevention is possible.

CT imaging is particularly useful because it can show several types of tissue - lung, bone, soft tissue and blood vessels with great clarity. Using specialist equipment and expertise to create and interpret CT scans of the body, radiologists can diagnose cancer, cardiovascular disease, infectious disease and musculoskeletal disorders - even in asymptomatic individuals

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Lifescan Facilities

At present there is very limited access to similar suitable machines in the UK. The UK has approximately eight CT scanners per million population compared to approximately 40 scanners per million in the US and most of Europe. Such under provision means that the NHS is not able to make full use of the potential of modern imaging.

We have recognised that access to such sophisticated equipment has been severely limited, resulting in GPs, consultants and patients being frustrated by waiting lists or the need to consider other, possibly more expensive, diagnostic methods.

Lifescan is the first national CT scanning facility to be established with the specific aim of offering a range of diagnostic and health assessment services. Set in a comfortable non-hospital environment our scanning services offer fast access to CT technology.

Referring Patients to Lifescan

All patients will be expected to complete a health questionnaire to ensure that only appropriate examinations are undertaken. The patient, their referring physician or other health care provider could help complete the questionnaire.

Each examination will be reported by a Consultant Radiologist and images recorded on a CD. A full report will be sent to their GP or referring clinician.

We would be happy to answer any questions you may have about these services or to discuss your imaging requirements.

Procedures for Patients

If referred for a specific scan, the patient will be contacted by Lifescan, and a convenient time arranged to visit. Where possible, health questionnaires and further details of the examination will be sent prior to an appointment, alternatively additional time will be allocated for these to be completed at the time of the appointment.

Once at our centre the patient will be shown into the scanning suite where the specific procedure will take place.

When the actual scanning is completed, the examination will be reviewed by a Radiologist, and a full report together with a CD of the images will be sent direct to the referring clinician.

The average time spent in the centre is unlikely to be more than 30 minutes.