Registered osteopaths, chiropractors and physiotherapists can now refer patients directly for private MRI scans at the Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.
This service is available to appropriately registered healthcare professionals and allows you to request MRI imaging to support clinical decision-making as part of your normal scope of practice.
What can be referred?
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- Private MRI scans only
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- Adult patients only (18+)
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- Non-contrast, non-complex MRI scans
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- No pacemaker, ICD’s or other electronically implanted devices
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- Patients that require GA or sedation are excluded
All referrals must be clinically justified and based on a full patient history and examination.
Who can refer?
You must:
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- Be a registered healthcare professional (e.g. HCPC-registered physiotherapist, GOsC-registered osteopath, GCC-registered chiropractor)
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- Be working within your scope of practice
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- Complete the Royal Devon Non-Medical Referrer (NMR) entitlement process in line with IR(ME)R regulations
How to get entitled to refer
- Complete the required e-Learning for Health (IR(ME)R & MRI safety)
- Apply for Non-Medical Referrer entitlement by completing the Royal Devon application form included in the SOP.
- Agree scope and indications.
- Your agreed MRI indications will be confirmed as part of the approval process.
- Complete training and sign documentation.
A full explanation of duties and requirements can be found in the Standard Operating Procedure for the Entitlement of Non-medical Referrers for Private MRIs.
Once approved, you’ll receive confirmation of entitlement and can begin referring.
Making a referral
Once entitled:
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- Submit MRI requests in line with your approved protocol
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- Review the MRI report and act on the findings
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- Contact the Private Patients team to amend or cancel requests if needed
Enquiries and applications:
rduh.radiology-eastern@nhs.net
If you’d like more information about eligibility, training requirements or the referral process, please get in touch — we’re happy to help.