Open MRI service for NHS & private patients continuing to operate

EUROPEAN SCANNING CENTRE IS STILL OPERATING AN MRI SERVICE

PEOPLE have had to adjust to a new normal during the coronavirus crisis, but there is a risk that many might avoid going to the doctors if they have a pain or health concern.

However, there are still people available to help, including European Scanning Centre.

European Scanning Centre is an MRI centre based in Cardiff Gate Business Park and prides itself on its relaxed and friendly environment. The centre, which contains the only Open and Upright MRI Scanner in Wales, has been carefully designed with the patient’s comfort in mind.

Like many businesses, it has adapted its service to the current situation to ensure that it can continue to operate and scan people who need an MRI.

PROTECTING PATIENTS

Melanie Jones, radiographer and centre manager at European Scanning Centre, has worked with MRI for more than 28 years and she is on hand to reassure patients.

“The health and safety of our patients, colleagues and the public is always its highest priority. There is no need to be worried to attend for a scan,” said Melanie. “We have taken all necessary precautions to make sure everyone is safe. We are a very small team and ensure contact is minimised.

We wear PPE and everything is constantly sanitised. We disinfect all the equipment after every patient.

“Patients can park right outside the building and we advise to only bring one person with them if needed, so that we can minimize the amount of people in the centre. All plants and magazines have been removed from the centre to minimise cross infection, as well as spacing out the chairs in the waiting room.”

European Scanning Centre also makes sure every patient is well enough for the appointment by asking them a series of questions before the booking is made. For example, if the patient has a cough or has been in contact with someone who has had coronavirus, they have to wait at least two weeks before booking.

APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

All of these steps mean the European Scanning Centre can continue to offer patients appointments who need an MRI scan.

Melanie is also keen to stress that the centre is not a hospital but a stand-alone clinic, so this should give everyone peace of mind.

“We are not a hospital and we make sure that all appointments are staggered so patients don’t come in contact with each other,” said Melanie.

If you need an MRI scan, it is recommended to seek advice from your doctor as they will be able to give a referral for European Scanning Centre.

Many GPs and other medical staff are now offering appointments via a video call or the telephone, so it means patients don’t need to worry about going into a surgery and putting themselves at risk.

To find out more about European Scanning Centre, visit europeanscanning.com/cardiff or call 029 2073 1654.