Ultrasound FAQs
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What is an ultrasound?
An ultrasound is a safe, painless imaging test that uses sound waves to create pictures of your internal organs, tissues, and blood flow.
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Is ultrasound safe?
Yes! Ultrasounds don’t use radiation, making them safe for adults, children, and even during pregnancy.
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How should I prepare for an ultrasound?
Preparation depends on the type of scan. Some may require fasting, a full bladder, or avoiding certain foods. Your doctor will give clear instructions.
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Does it hurt?
No — most ultrasounds are painless. You might feel slight pressure from the probe on your skin, but it’s not uncomfortable.
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How long does an ultrasound take?
Most scans take 15–30 minutes, depending on the area being examined.
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Can I eat or drink before the scan?
Some scans, like abdominal ultrasounds, may require fasting. Others, like pelvic scans, may require drinking water beforehand. Instructions will be provided.
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When will I get the results?
Your doctor usually receives the report quickly. In some cases, results may be available the same day or within a few days.
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. Can ultrasounds detect all problems?
Ultrasound is excellent for many conditions, but some issues may need additional tests like CT, MRI, or X-rays for a complete picture.
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Do I need a referral for an ultrasound?
Most imaging requires a referral from your GP or specialist. Check with us if you’re unsure.
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Can I bring someone with me?
Yes! Family or friends are welcome to accompany you during your scan for support and comfort.
Body X-Ray FAQs
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What is a body X-ray?
An X-ray is a fast imaging test that uses a small amount of radiation to take pictures of your bones and certain internal organs.
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Is it safe?
Yes! X-rays use very low levels of radiation and are considered safe for most patients. Protective shields may be used when needed.
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Does it hurt?
No — the test is painless. You simply need to stay still while the image is taken.
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How long does it take?
Most X-rays take just a few minutes, including positioning and imaging.
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Do I need to prepare?
Usually no special preparation is required. You may be asked to remove jewelry or metal objects that can block the image.
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Will I get my results immediately?
The images are reviewed by a radiologist. Your doctor will typically receive the report within a few hours to a couple of days.
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Can X-rays detect all conditions?
X-rays are excellent for bones, fractures, and certain lung or chest conditions. Some soft tissue issues may require additional imaging like ultrasound, CT, or MRI.
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Can children or pregnant women have X-rays?
Yes, but with extra precautions. Protective shielding is used to minimize exposure, and X-rays are only done when medically necessary.
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Do I need a referral?
Yes — a referral from a GP or specialist is usually required to ensure the X-ray is appropriate for your condition.
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Can I bring someone with me?
Yes! Family or friends are welcome to provide support during your X-ray.
Dental CBCT Scan FAQs
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What is a Dental CBCT scan?
A Dental Cone Beam CT scan is a 3D imaging test that captures detailed pictures of your teeth, jaws, and surrounding structures for precise dental assessment.
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Is it safe?
Yes! CBCT uses low-dose radiation and is safe for most patients. Protective measures are used to minimize exposure.
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Does it hurt?
No — the scan is painless. You simply need to stay still while the machine rotates around your head.
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How long does it take?
Most dental CBCT scans are completed in less than a minute, though setup may take a few additional minutes.
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Do I need any preparation?
No special preparation is required, but you may be asked to remove glasses, jewelry, or dental appliances that could affect the image.
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What is it used for?
CBCT helps dentists plan implants, assess jaw alignment, detect hidden dental issues, evaluate sinuses, and examine bone structures in detail.
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When will I get my results?
The scan is reviewed by your dentist or radiologist, and your results are usually available the same day or within a few days.
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Can children have a CBCT scan?
Yes, but only when medically necessary, with appropriate protective measures to minimize radiation exposure.
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Do I need a referral?
Yes — a dentist or specialist referral is generally required to ensure the scan is necessary and appropriate for your treatment.
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Can I bring someone with me?
Yes! Family or friends are welcome for support during your scan.
DEXA Scan FAQs
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What is a DEXA scan?
A DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) scan measures your bone density to check for osteoporosis or risk of fractures.
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Is it safe?
Yes! DEXA uses very low levels of X-ray radiation and is considered safe for most patients, including older adults.
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Does it hurt?
No — the scan is painless. You lie still on a table while the machine measures your bone density.
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How long does it take?
A typical scan takes 10–20 minutes, depending on the areas being examined.
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Do I need to prepare?
No special preparation is usually required. Avoid calcium supplements for 24 hours before the scan, if instructed by your doctor.
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What areas are scanned?
DEXA usually measures the spine, hip, and sometimes the forearm to assess overall bone health.
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Can a DEXA scan measure body composition?
Yes! Some DEXA scans can analyze body fat, lean muscle, and bone mass, giving a complete picture of your body composition.
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When will I get my results?
Results are reviewed by a radiologist or doctor, often available the same day or within a few days.
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Who should get a DEXA scan?
Typically recommended for postmenopausal women, older adults, or anyone at risk of osteoporosis or fractures. Your doctor can advise if it’s right for you.
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Can children have a DEXA scan?
Yes, but only if medically necessary, such as for growth, bone disorders, or certain treatments.
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Do I need a referral?
Yes — a referral from a GP or specialist is generally required to ensure the test is appropriate.
Phlebotomy FAQs
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What is phlebotomy?
Phlebotomy is the process of drawing blood for medical tests, helping your doctor assess your health.
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Is it painful?
Most patients feel only a quick pinch when the needle is inserted. The procedure is generally fast and minimally uncomfortable.
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How long does it take?
The actual blood draw usually takes a few minutes. Overall, including check-in and preparation, it may take 10–15 minutes.
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Do I need to prepare?
Some tests may require fasting or avoiding certain medications. Your doctor or our staff will give you clear instructions beforehand.
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Can I drink water before the test?
Yes — unless instructed otherwise, staying hydrated is actually recommended, as it makes blood collection easier.
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Are there any risks?
Phlebotomy is very safe. Minor side effects can include slight bruising or tenderness at the puncture site.
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Can children have blood tests?
Yes, blood tests are safe for children. Our staff is trained to make the experience as comfortable as possible.
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When will I get my results?
Results depend on the specific test. Some may be ready the same day, while others may take a few days. Your doctor will provide the details.
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Do I need a referral?
Most tests are ordered by a GP or specialist to ensure the right tests are done for your health needs.
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Can I bring someone with me?
Yes! Family or friends are welcome to provide support during your blood draw.
Private GP Services FAQs
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What is a private GP consultation?
A private GP consultation is a one-on-one appointment where you receive personalized medical care without waiting for NHS or public service schedules.
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Do I need insurance to see a private GP?
No, private GP services can be accessed directly. Insurance may cover some services depending on your plan.
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How quickly can I get an appointment?
Private GP appointments are typically available within a few days, and urgent consultations may be accommodated even sooner.
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What services does a private GP provide?
Private GPs offer full medical care, including check-ups, diagnosis, treatment, referrals, preventive advice, and access to certain tests.
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Are consultations confidential?
Yes. All consultations and medical records are kept strictly private, following healthcare privacy regulations.
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Can private GPs order tests?
Yes. Private GPs can arrange blood tests, imaging (X-rays, ultrasound, DEXA), and other diagnostic tests as needed.
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Are prescriptions provided?
Yes. Private GPs can issue prescriptions and advise on medications or lifestyle interventions tailored to your needs.
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Can children and elderly patients see a private GP?
Yes! Private GPs provide care for all ages, from children to older adults.
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How long does a consultation last?
Typically 15–30 minutes, depending on your health concerns and any required examinations or tests.
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Do I need a referral to see a private GP?
No referral is required; you can book directly for private consultations.
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