Welcome To Imaging At KEVII – A Guide To Your Visit

To help us paint a clearer picture of imaging at KEVII, we spoke to Lul Khalif who manages the day-to-day of our imaging services. As she explains: “That means I look after everything from our scanners and equipment to the staff and timings, but most importantly, I make sure your journey with us is as smooth and comfortable as possible.”

Lul explains exactly what happens when you come in for a scan, step by step. From the moment you arrive at our reception desk to the time your scan is complete and your results are sent to your consultant. Whether you’re here for an X-ray, an MRI, or another type of imaging, you’ll know what to expect at every stage, who you’ll meet, and how we support you throughout your visit.

 

Introduction and background

Imaging is the backbone of the hospital because most people we treat will touch the imaging department at some point. Whether you’re coming in for a simple X-ray to investigate back pain, a CT scan after an injury, or an MRI to explore something more complex, imaging is what helps your doctors get the answers they need to guide your care. “It’s not always a service people know much about,” says Lul, “but it’s at the heart of diagnosis and treatment, supporting your health journey every step of the way.

“I know coming in for a scan can feel a bit daunting – especially if you’ve never done it before. (One patient told me recently, ‘The only thing I know about MRIs is what I’ve seen on Grey’s Anatomy’. And let me tell you, that’s not exactly an accurate picture! Imaging isn’t some alien or scary space – it’s a modern, welcoming environment with cutting-edge technology and friendly staff who are here to help). It’s my goal to make sure you feel comfortable, confident, and well-prepared before you even step through our doors.”

Our imaging team is here to make sure you feel safe and supported. 

“Even though we’re based down in the lower levels of the hospital – yes, we’re in the basement! – it’s bright, airy, and far from the ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ version of imaging. You’ll always have someone with you, and we’re here to make the whole process as straightforward and friendly as possible.”

Step 1. Before Your Visit: Preparing for Your Scan

Booking your appointment

“If you’ve been referred for a scan by your consultant, the process is straightforward,” says Lul. In many cases, your referral will be sent to us electronically, so there’s no need for physical paperwork. If you need to book your appointment yourself, give us a call, and our friendly team will take care of everything. Whether you’re coming in for an X-ray, an MRI, or something else, we’ll ensure the booking process is smooth and convenient for you.

Find out more about MRI scans at KEVII.

What you need to know

Before your scan, we’ll check to make sure it’s safe for you to have the procedure. For example, if you’re having an MRI, we’ll ask about any metal implants or devices like pacemakers. “Don’t worry if you’re unsure – we’ll guide you through everything. Sometimes, certain scans require preparation, like fasting or avoiding metal clothing. We’ll give you all the details you need ahead of time.”

What to bring

Wear comfortable clothing, and if your scan requires it, avoid wearing any jewellery or clothes with metal parts, like zips or buttons. If you have any medical records or previous imaging results that might be helpful, feel free to bring those along too.

 

Step 2. Arriving at the Hospital

Welcome to Imaging

When you arrive at King Edward VII’s, you’ll head to the imaging department, where our reception team will greet you. “We’re located on the lower ground floor and basement,” says Lul. “Don’t worry, it’s bright and airy, and nothing like the ‘basement’ you might imagine!

Checking in

At the reception desk, our friendly team will check you in and let the radiographers know you’ve arrived. We’ll confirm your appointment details and make sure everything is ready for you. If there’s a short wait, you can relax in our comfortable waiting area with a tea or coffee.

Relax while you wait

Waiting times are usually short, but we want you to feel as comfortable as possible. “While you wait, feel free to enjoy a drink or bring along a book, magazine, or even your favourite podcast to help pass the time.”

Step 3. Meeting Your Imaging Team

Who you’ll meet

“Once it’s your turn, one of our clinical radiology assistants or radiographers will come to collect you from the waiting area,” she explains. “They’ll introduce themselves and walk you to the imaging room or changing area. You’ll never be left on your own unless you’re in a private changing room or during the scan itself – we’re here to support you every step of the way.”

Getting to know you

Before your scan, we’ll review your medical history, address any concerns, and answer any questions you might have. For example, if it’s your first MRI, you might wonder how it works or how long it will take.

Step 4. Preparing for Your Scan

Questionnaire

Before certain scans, like MRIs, we’ll ask you to complete a safety questionnaire to make sure the procedure is right for you. MRI scanners use powerful magnets, so we’ll ask about things like pacemakers or metal implants, which might require adjustments. For example, if you have a pacemaker, we can bring in specialists to temporarily adjust it so you can safely have your scan. These precautions are in place to keep you safe while ensuring you get the best possible imaging results.Changing for the scan

Depending on the type of scan you’re having, you might need to change into a gown. As Lul explains: “We’ll guide you to a private changing area where you’ll have all the time you need to get ready. Don’t worry – your belongings will be kept safe while you’re being scanned.”

Safety first

For some scans, like MRIs, you’ll fill out a safety questionnaire to make sure it’s safe for you to proceed. If there are any concerns, such as metal implants or devices, we’ll discuss alternatives or ways to work around them.

Understanding the process

Before we begin, your radiographer will explain what will happen during the scan. For example, if you’re having an MRI, they’ll let you know how long it will take, what sounds to expect, and how we’ll keep you comfortable. For anything more involved, like an injection of contrast dye, we’ll talk you through the process and get your consent.

 

Step 5. During Your Scan

What it’s like in the room

“Our imaging rooms are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, but we’ve also worked hard to make them welcoming and patient-friendly.” For MRIs, for example, we’ve invested in high-quality headphones and even a Spotify account so you can listen to your favourite music, podcast, or audiobook while the scan is happening.

What happens during the scan

If you’re having an X-ray, the process is usually very quick – taking only a minute or two. An MRI, on the other hand, can take up to 40 minutes, though many scans are much shorter thanks to the AI technology we’ve added to our machines. Lul says “whatever the scan, we’ll make sure you’re comfortable and explain what’s happening throughout.”

At King Edward VII’s, we’ve invested in some of the best imaging technology available. Our MRI scanners, for example, are equipped with AI that helps reduce scan times without compromising quality. What used to take 40 minutes might now only take 10, depending on the scan. 

Staying comfortable

For longer scans like MRIs, we’ll do everything we can to make the experience pleasant. “From providing headphones and music to talking you through each step, we’re here to ensure you’re relaxed and at ease. If you need anything, just let us know – we’re always close by.”

“We’ve added touches to make your experience as comfortable as possible, like noise-cancelling headphones and even a Spotify account. Whether you’d like to listen to your favourite playlist, an audiobook, or a podcast, we’ve got you covered. It’s all part of making your time with us as pleasant as possible.”

Step 6. After Your Scan

What happens next

Once your scan is complete, we’ll help you remove any equipment, such as a cannula if contrast dye was used. You’ll then be able to change back into your clothes in a private area.

Checking in on you

Before you leave, we’ll check how you’re feeling and answer any last questions. For some procedures, like ultrasound-guided injections, we might ask how effective the treatment was or how you’re managing pain.

Find out more about ultra-sound scans at KEVII.

Results and follow-up

Your scan results will usually be sent to your consultant within 24 to 48 hours. They’ll review the findings and contact you to discuss the next steps in your care.

 

Step 7. Patient Feedback

What others say

Lul says: “We often hear lovely feedback from our patients, like, ‘That was so much faster than I expected!’ or, ‘The team made me feel so comfortable and supported’. Many people compare their experiences here to previous visits to other clinics and tell us how much they appreciate the care and efficiency at KEVII. One of my favourite comments was from a patient who said, ‘I thought it would feel really clinical, but it was so warm and friendly – more like a hotel!’”

Don’t just take our word for it, check out our reviews on Doctify!

Your questions answered

If you still have questions about what to expect, don’t hesitate to ask. Our team is here to make sure you feel fully informed and confident about your visit. We hope this guide has helped you feel more prepared and at ease about your upcoming visit to our imaging department. Our goal is to make sure you feel supported, comfortable, and confident every step of the way. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us – we’re here to help.

Thank you for trusting us to be part of your care. We’re looking forward to welcoming you to King Edward VII’s Hospital and making your experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.