Vista Health

Vista Health: private diagnostics with nationwide coverage in the UK

Vista Health presents itself as the largest independent provider of specialist diagnostic services in the UK. Its activity focuses on imaging tests and health screening programmes, with a network of more than 60 locations across the country and the possibility of booking an appointment without a prior medical referral. The company states that its goal is to make healthcare more affordable and accessible, with services starting from £75.

Imaging tests and screenings available

The company's catalogue includes magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), full-body MRI, open and upright MRI, computed tomography (CT), ultrasound, echocardiogram (ECHO), X-ray, bone densitometry (DEXA) and endoscopy. In the field of screening, it offers health assessments such as Full Body Plus, prostate, women's, bowel and cardiac, among others. The prices published at the time of analysis ranged from £99 for an X-ray to £1,200 for an endoscopy, including £249 for an MRI, £765 for a full-body MRI, £695 for a prostate assessment, £295 for an echocardiogram, £175 for an ultrasound, £575 for open and upright MRI, £445 for a CT scan and £145 for a densitometry scan.

Booking and care process

The process begins with choosing the type of test and the location, followed by payment to confirm the appointment. Alternatively, the patient can submit the referral form and will receive a call from the patient care team to arrange a time slot. The company accepts self-referral in most cases, although in some circumstances it may request additional clinical information. It also offers a virtual consultation service with GMC-registered GPs for those who need a referral or wish to discuss the results. Appointments are available seven days a week and, according to the company, there are no waiting lists, with same-day scan options.

Results and patient care

After the test, the results are sent for analysis and reporting. The patient usually receives a written report prepared by a consultant radiologist and the scan images in electronic format where applicable. The report is also sent to the patient's NHS GP or the referring clinician. The company states that its goal is to deliver all results within three working days. The patient care team is available Monday to Friday from 8:00 to 20:00 and weekends from 8:00 to 13:00.

Services for businesses and professionals

In addition to direct patient care, Vista Health has a business line aimed at organisations. Its offerings for businesses include collaboration with clinical partners, employee health assessments, clinical trials and medico-legal services. The company states that it works with some of the UK's best-known healthcare providers, insurers, employers and clinicians.

Network of locations

The company operates from more than 60 locations in the UK, with a notable presence in London, Birmingham, Liverpool, Manchester, Milton Keynes and Scotland. According to its presentation, this network allows it to offer nationwide access to diagnostic services both for patients who pay privately and for those with private medical insurance.