MRI screening of patients referred from the Oncology Centre
at Cheltenham General Hospital
The free screening of patients referred from the Oncology Centre at Cheltenham General
Hospital is provided by Cobalt on an ongoing basis and is an integral part of Cobalt’s aim to
support diagnostic services for patients across the three counties of Gloucestershire,
Herefordshire and Worcestershire.
The impact on both the NHS’ ability to deliver a quality service and the patients referred
cannot be understated. Reduced waiting time for scans, with no cost to the NHS, makes the
provision of this service incredibly valuable to both the NHS and patients alike. Without it
pressure would be put on the already limited finances of the NHS which could cause a delay in
accessing MRI, or even limit access to MRI.
The key benefits of the service:

Scan waiting times are reduced thus helping to alleviate stress and anxiety on the part
patients waiting for a scan.

Consultants and clinicians receive the results of scans much sooner than would be
otherwise available, allowing them to:
a) Make a more informed diagnosis
b) Decide on a course of treatment more quickly
c) Begin treatment earlier

Outcomes in many cases include:
a) Reduced suffering as a result of treatments starting sooner
b) Improved outcomes for patients
d) Reduced time spent in hospital
The annual Cost to Cobalt is £160,000
500 patients per year benefit from this service
Cobalt – helping people affected by cancer and other life-limiting conditions
Cobalt Appeal Fund (Cobalt) Registered Charity Number 1090790
/