CT scan waiting times in England

CT scan waiting times refer to how long people typically wait for an NHS computed tomography (CT) scan after being referred for diagnostic imaging. Waiting times vary across England and depend on local NHS capacity, referral urgency, and demand for diagnostic services.

This page provides independent, factual information about NHS CT scan waiting times in England. It explains how CT referral pathways work, typical waiting time ranges, and why waiting times differ depending on where people live.

What is a CT scan?

A CT scan (computed tomography scan) is a diagnostic imaging test that uses X-rays and computer processing to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body. CT scans are commonly used to help diagnose conditions affecting bones, organs and soft tissues, and to guide treatment planning.

CT scans are provided through NHS hospitals and diagnostic centres. Access to a CT scan usually requires a referral from a GP, hospital consultant or another qualified healthcare professional.

This website does not provide medical advice or diagnostic guidance. If you have questions about a CT scan, you should speak to a qualified healthcare professional.

How NHS CT referral pathways work

In England, NHS CT services are delivered by hospitals and diagnostic providers commissioned locally. Referral routes and access arrangements can vary between areas.

In general, the process includes:

• Referral for a CT scan by a healthcare professional
• Scheduling of the scan based on clinical priority
• Imaging carried out at an NHS hospital or diagnostic centre

CT referrals may be classified by urgency, which can affect waiting times. Services are commissioned locally by Integrated Care Boards (ICBs), meaning availability and capacity differ across regions.

Typical NHS CT scan waiting times

Published NHS diagnostics data indicates that CT scan waiting times in England vary by area and by clinical urgency.

In many areas:

• Routine CT scan waiting times range from several weeks to a few months
• Urgent CT scans are prioritised and may be carried out more quickly

Waiting times can fluctuate due to scanner availability, staffing levels, and overall demand for diagnostic imaging. Actual waiting times for individuals may vary depending on clinical need and local circumstances.

Why CT scan waiting times vary by area

CT scan waiting times differ across England for several reasons, including:

• Availability of CT scanners and trained staff
• Local demand for diagnostic imaging
• Differences in commissioning arrangements
• Pressures on hospital diagnostic services

Because CT services are organised locally, waiting times can vary significantly between towns, regions and NHS trusts.

CT scan waiting times by town and area

CT scan waiting times are not the same everywhere. Local NHS hospitals and diagnostic services may have different waiting lists depending on capacity and demand.

This website provides town-specific pages showing estimated CT scan waiting times based on published NHS data, helping users understand how waiting times vary across England.

Browse CT scan waiting times by county and town

Select a county to view available towns. Town pages include published diagnostics data and service guidance.

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