How to Choose a Diagnostic Centre: Questions You Should Ask
Author: Dr Lauren Holland
When it comes to your health, choosing the right diagnostic centre matters. A simple blood test, hormone check, or health screen is only as reliable as the standards behind it. Before booking your appointment, here are key questions to help you choose wisely – and why Marylebone Diagnostic Centre (MDC) consistently meets those standards.
Is the Clinic Registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC)?
In the UK, every private medical clinic must be registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC).
This registration ensures that the centre meets legal and safety standards for patient care, infection control, and data protection.
When a clinic is CQC-registered, you can trust that it operates under strict governance and undergoes regular inspections.
At MDC:
We are proudly CQC-accredited, ensuring every test and consultation follows regulated protocols that protect your safety and privacy.
Does the Laboratory Meet Recognised Quality Standards?
Many people look for UKAS accreditation, which is required for laboratories working directly with the NHS.
However, private diagnostic laboratories do not legally require UKAS accreditation – they may follow internal or international quality frameworks instead.
What matters most is whether a lab uses validated equipment, external quality control (QC), and regular calibration.
At MDC:
All our instruments are maintained to manufacturer standards and verified through QCMD external quality assurance, forming part of our internal benchmark known as the Marylebone High Standard.
Our results are reviewed by experienced biomedical scientists and medical consultants before release.
How Quickly Will I Receive My Results?
Turnaround time is one of the most important differences between providers.
In hospitals or NHS clinics, you might wait weeks for non-urgent results.
A good private diagnostic centre should provide results within days — ideally, within 48 hours.
At MDC:
We deliver most results within 24 – 42 hours, with urgent profiles processed the same day.
Our clinicians review results promptly and can arrange teleconsultations to discuss findings directly with you.
What Level of Privacy and Comfort Can You Expect?
Diagnostics can feel personal. You deserve a calm, private space where you feel respected and at ease.
At MDC:
Our clinic offers private suites, discreet blood collection areas, and confidential appointments.
From fertility and hormone testing to men’s and women’s health, every patient is treated with sensitivity and professionalism.
Are the Tests Clearly Explained?
A quality diagnostic centre doesn’t just collect samples – it helps you understand your results.
Many people leave hospital clinics with figures they can’t interpret. That should never happen.
At MDC:
Every test comes with a clear, consultant-reviewed report.
Our clinicians can walk you through your results and help you understand what each number means for your health.
Are Prices Transparent and Fair?
Transparency builds trust. A reputable diagnostic centre should list its test prices clearly, without hidden charges or complicated add-ons.
At MDC:
Our pricing is completely transparent and available online. You pay only for the tests you need – nothing more.
Why Choosing the Right Centre Matters
Reliable diagnostics form the foundation of healthcare.
When your results are accurate, you and your clinician can make better, faster decisions — saving time, money, and worry.
Choosing a well-regulated, community-based, and transparent clinic like Marylebone Diagnostic Centre ensures every test meets the highest possible standard.
Book with Confidence
If you value professionalism, accuracy, and comfort, book your next test at Marylebone Diagnostic Centre.
Our team provides same-day and next-day appointments, rapid turnaround, and full result explanations – all under the Marylebone High Standard.
Book your appointment at marylebonediagnosticcentre.com
FAQs
Why Choose Marylebone Diagnostic Centre?
- Results within 24 – 42 hours
- On-site Medical review
- Private suites
- Discreet & confidential care
- CQC-accredited and aligned with the Marylebone High Standard
- Optional teleconsultations for results
Contact: +44 7495 970109
Address: 73 Baker Street, London W1U 6RD
Opening: Monday–Saturday, 8:00–16:00
5-minute walk from Baker Street tube
Results within 24–42 hours depending on the test
