Private cardiac MRI scans in Solihull

If your consultant has recommended a closer look at your heart, a cardiac MRI can help them understand how well it’s working and identify any changes that may need attention. At Heath Lodge Clinic, we provide specialist cardiac MRI scans in a calm, welcoming setting.

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What is a cardiac MRI?

A cardiac MRI, also called cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR), is a non-invasive scan that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of your heart and the surrounding blood vessels. It’s one of the most comprehensive ways to assess how your heart is working.

The scan can help your consultant assess blood flow, heart valves and changes within the heart muscle, including inflammation or scarring. These detailed images can support diagnosis, ongoing monitoring and decisions about your care.

Unlike X-rays, cardiac MRI doesn’t expose you to ionising radiation (the type of radiation that can damage cells).

Our experienced team uses advanced MRI technology to carry out your scan, with specialist reporting to help guide your consultant’s decisions. You’ll need a referral from your consultant before you can book an appointment with us.

Why might you need a cardiac MRI scan?

A cardiac MRI may be recommended to investigate symptoms, check a heart condition you already know about or monitor your heart health over time.

Some of the reasons your consultant might request a scan include:

Chest pain
Shortness of breath
Palpitations
Cardiomyopathy, which affects the heart muscle
Heart failure
Heart valve disease
Conditions affecting the aorta (the main artery carrying blood away from the heart)
Inflammation of the heart
Assessing your heart after a heart attack
Checking for scarring in the heart muscle and how much healthy tissue remains

Your consultant will advise if a cardiac MRI is the right scan for you. The results can then help them understand your heart health and decide on the next steps in your care.

What to expect during your cardiac MRI scan

When you arrive at Heath Lodge Clinic, a member of our team will welcome you and check your details. We’ll also go through the relevant MRI safety information before your scan.

Your radiographer will talk you through the scan and answer any questions you may have before it begins.

During the cardiac MRI, you’ll lie on the scanner bed while detailed images of your heart are taken. You’ll need to keep as still as possible, and you may be asked to hold your breath briefly while some images are taken. You’ll be able to communicate with the radiographer throughout.

The scanner makes tapping and knocking sounds while it’s working, so we’ll give you ear protection to help make the experience more comfortable.

Your scan will be tailored to what your consultant needs to assess. If there’s anything specific you need to do before or during your appointment, our team will explain this to you in advance.

Why choose Heath Lodge Clinic for your cardiac MRI?

Private GP referral pathway

If you choose this route, you can book your scan first. Once the private GP has the results from us, an appointment will be organised to discuss the results and any appropriate onward management if required. There is an additional fee of £75, which is payable directly to the private GP.

The private GP will:

Send results to your registered NHS GP for information if the findings are normal, or
Discuss next steps with you if follow‑up is advised

You can either continue privately or take the report back to your registered NHS GP for NHS follow‑up.

What to expect on the day

When you arrive, we’ll welcome you and run through a short safety questionnaire.

The scan is performed on a 3T MRI scanner and usually takes around 20 minutes.

We provide ear protection and will check in with you throughout the scan – you’ll be able to speak to the radiographer at any time.

You’re welcome to bring a relative or friend for support, as long as they can be safely screened to enter the MRI scan room (for example, no metal implants or loose metallic items). Our team will check this with you before we book your appointment.

Claustrophobic? Tell us in advance – we’ll talk through comfort options.

Enquire about a cardiac MRI

If your consultant has recommended a cardiac MRI scan, our team can help you arrange your appointment once we’ve received your referral. If you have any questions about the service or referral process, please get in touch.

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Booking your appointment

Heath Lodge Clinic is located in Knowle, Solihull. The setting is relaxed and private, with free on-site parking.

Appointments are typically Monday–Friday, with some early evening slots available on request and occasional Saturdays.

If you would like to ask a question, check eligibility or arrange a scan, you can call us on 01564 732150 or request a call back. We’re also happy to speak with a partner or family member if that is easier for you.