Bringing your scan home

A scan is only useful if your doctor at home can see it. Collect these before you leave Kathmandu.

Ask for these before you leave

• The full images on CD or USB in DICOM format, not only printed films or phone photos
• The signed radiologist's report, in English if possible
• The scan details: date, centre name, body part, whether contrast was used, and the machine (for example 1.5T or 3T)
• Receipts, in case your insurer or employer covers any of the cost

Will your doctor at home use it?

We found no NHS or BMA guidance that deals specifically with scans done abroad. The BMA says GPs act on tests arranged privately only when they judge them clinically appropriate, and that patients can move their care from private to NHS (BMA). In practice, your GP or consultant decides whether to rely on your scan or repeat it.

UK travel health guidance advises bringing back copies of all records and scans, and a full report in English (Travel Health Pro, Travel Aware).

Tips

• Tell your doctor before you travel that you plan to have the scan in Nepal, and ask what they need.
• Check the CD or USB opens on a computer before you leave the centre.
• Ask whether the centre has an online portal where your doctor can view the images.