Scans and x-rays can give you information about your condition, and may help diagnose (or more often out rule) injury or disease. This section explains the practicalities of arranging scans and x-rays. These investigations may be public (that is funded by the HSE) or Private (in a private facility where you pay directly or funded by Private Health Insurance)
Many investigations are available free of charge in public hospitals to anyone, whether you have a medical card or not.
Simple investigations such as Chest-x-ray or an x-ray on an injury are typically available quickly when we request them from a public hospital.
X-rays for more chronic conditions are usually available within a few weeks. Routine Ultrasound appointments are available, they can take several weeks or even months DEXA scanning is available in a number of public facilities, sometimes subject to special conditions or a charge. Waiting lists are sometimes long
Public CT and MRI are generally only available for patients who are attending a hospital doctor. The results of tests are sent to the doctor who orders the investigation, and if ordered by a hospital doctor will not be routinely sent to your GP. We suggest that you ask the person performing the scan or x-ray for you to advise you when the results will be available and to whom they will be sent.
Useful contact numbers for Public Scans and X-ray appointments
- St James's Hospital Tel 01 4162701
- Connolly Hospital Blanchardstown Tel 01 6465235
- Tallaght Hospital (Adult) Tel 01 4143700
- Tallaght Hospital (Child) Tel 01 4143762
- Children's Hospital Crumlin Tel 01 4096151
- Naas General Hospital Tel 045849810
- Peamount Hospital Tel 01 6010320
Private facilities generally offer quick access to a range of investigations. Depending on your insurance cover, some may be paid for by your health Insurer, but you may have to pay yourself and it is important to clarify the situation with your insurer. Some tests are only paid for under particular conditions and it is wise to inform yourself before incurring costs.
We suggest that you ask the person performing the scan when the results will be available and to whom they will be sent.
Useful contact numbers for Private Scans and X-ray appointments