BUPA extends its quality assured MRI network

Leading UK health insurer Bupa is extending its network of MRI units by a third, to 352, giving customers access to even more state-of-the art, quality assessed scanners across the UK.

The new network - the only one of its kind - also offers better value for money by further reducing the cost of MRI scans by 20 percent.

Bupa launched the UK's first ever specialist MRI network in 2006. Approved MRI units have to meet strict quality criteria and agree to conduct regular audits of their service. This ensures that their scanners are up-to-date, that they give patients access to specialist UK-based consultant radiologists and offer good value for money. In its first two years, Bupa's network has delivered substantial savings which have paid for new and expensive cancer drugs and treatments, some of which are not widely available on the NHS.

Many MRI units at private and NHS hospitals and imaging facilities in the network are open for evening and weekend appointments and can offer out-patient scans within two working days. The majority can also transfer images electronically allowing consultants and radiologists to see images and reports in different locations.

Dr. Paula Franklin, deputy medical director of Bupa Health Insurance said: "Bupa is the first health insurer in the country to establish an approved network of MRI units that ensures quality of service and safety for patients. We have looked at everything from how quickly patients get an appointment for a scan to the upkeep and maintenance of the equipment and safety standards.

"We pay for more than 90,000 MRI scans every year. We want to offer our members more choice, the best value for money and make the whole process simple for them. Getting the right treatment at the right time in the right place means a better outcome for patients."

More than 400 MRI units across the UK applied to become Bupa approved. The new network includes units operated by hospital groups such as BMI, Classics, HCA, Nuffield and Spire and individual private hospitals such as St. Anthony's in Cheam. Around 75 NHS hospitals are included as well as diagnostics specialists like Lodestone Patient Care.

Bupa Health Insurance already offers specialist services for its members with breast, bowel and gynaecological cancer through approved cancer hospitals.

For more information about Bupa approved MRI units, visit bupa.co.uk/members/asp/specialist_services