Frequently asked questions

Click on the links below to find the answers to these frequently asked questions on back pain and SpineCare:

How long will it take to get a diagnosis?
What is included in my assessment?
What is an MRI scan?
Can I get some pain relief straight away?
Will I have to have surgery?
Can I continue to see a physiotherapist after my diagnosis?
Will my private medical insurance cover SpineCare?
How do I make an appointment?
Where is my nearest BMI hospital?
Do I need my GP to refer me?

How long will it take to get a diagnosis?

SpineCare offers a fast track route through a range of high-level assessments to deliver an accurate diagnosis for back pain. In most cases we aim to do this in one day, though two visits may be required at some hospitals.

What is included in my assessment?

Our simple pricing structure includes the following tests and assessments to enable us to give you a diagnosis:

• A physiotherapy assessment
• An MRI scan*
• A consultation with a spinal surgeon or neurosurgeon

Payment can be made by credit card, debit card, BMI Card, bankers draft, Building Society cheque or personal cheque. Many hospitals also accept cash payment. We ask you to pay for your SpineCare package on or before the day of your appointment. In the case of personal cheques we need to receive your payment at least five working days before your visit to hospital.

For a written quotation please fill in our enquiry form.

*Unless there is a specific reason why you should not have an MRI scan.

What is an MRI scan?

An MRI scan allows the consultant to look for any internal injuries or conditions. MRI scanning takes two-dimensional and three-dimensional pictures of the inside of your body using a large magnet, radio waves and a computer.

See our page on MRI scanning for more information.

Can I get some pain relief straight away?

Most back pain can be treated non-surgically, and your consultant will talk through all the treatment options available during your consultation. You might receive an injection to help relieve pain immediately.

For more information see our page on non-surgical treatments for back pain.

Will I have to have surgery?

Most back pain can be relieved without the need for invasive treatment or surgery. Your consultant spinal surgeon or neurosurgeon will look at all other avenues of treatment before recommending surgery.

If you do need surgery, you can be referred within your BMI hospital. For further information see our spinal surgery page.

Can I continue to see a physiotherapist after my diagnosis?

Many cases of back pain will benefit from a course of physiotherapy. Your consultant will be happy to discuss a treatment plan with you, and you can book your next appointment with your BMI hospital's Physiotherapy Department after your consultation.

Will my private medical insurance cover SpineCare?

If you are insured you may be covered for SpineCare. You should contact your insurance company to check you are covered. Then seek a referral from your GP and call our helpline advisors on 0800 404 6778, or complete the enquiry form, to make an appointment.

How do I make an appointment?

Our specially trained staff are available to answer your questions and to help you make an appointment at a time to suit you at your nearest BMI SpineCare clinic. Just call 0800 404 6778, or complete the enquiry form.

Where is my nearest BMI hospital?

There are currently 12 hospitals offering the SpineCare service. For details of your nearest hospital see our hospital list.

Do I need my GP to refer me?

For most people, a GP referral is not required to have a SpineCare assessment. However if you would like to claim on your medical insurance, a GP referral may be required. Call our helpline advisors on 0800 404 6778, or complete the enquiry form for more information.