Direct Access to Chest X-Ray
(self-referral)

Chest x-rays are a useful way for us to find out if you have any problems with your lungs that might require treatment. You may find there is nothing to be concerned about and an x-ray could put your mind at rest, but if you do have a problem with your lungs that requires some treatment, such as lung cancer, finding it early can make it easier to treat.

The NHS is currently offering chest x-rays to members of the public registered with a GP in Bury, Heywood, Middleton or Rochdale.

A black lady wearing a pink headscarf coughs into her hand

Who is eligible?

You are able to use this service if you registered with a GP in Bury, Heywood, Middleton or Rochdale, (you can check which GP surgeries are included in this document) are over 40 and have been experiencing one or more of the following symptoms for over three weeks:

  • Cough
  • Fatigue
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest pain
  • Weight loss
  • Appetite loss
  • Coughing up blood

If you are coughing up blood it is very important to contact your GP urgently. You are still able to attend for a chest x-ray.

If you have any concerns regarding your symptoms, please contact your GP.

Download a list of GP surgeries eligible for this service here

What to do if you don’t have a GP

If you aren’t registered with a GP, anybody can register for free in England.  You do not need proof of address or immigration status, ID or an NHS Number.

For more details on how to register please visit www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/gps/how-to-register-with-a-gp-surgery/

You can also register at a GP practice in person.

How to get a chest x-ray

There are 4 walk-in centres where you can get a chest x-ray.  You do not need to book an appointment and you do not require a referral from a healthcare professional. Just turn up during opening hours.

Rochdale Infirmary

Radiology (X-Ray) Department, Whitehall Street, Rochdale OL12 0NB

Go to the Infirmary Main Entrance, walk past the reception desk and descend to Level A via the lifts or stairs, the Radiology Department will be on your left a short way along this corridor

Opening Times

8.30am to 7.30pm Monday to Friday

8.30am to 12pm Saturday

Fairfield General Hospital

Radiology (X-Ray) Department, Rochdale Old Road, Bury BL9 7TD

Go to the Hospital Main Entrance, walk towards the left of the main entrance area, the Radiology Department will be located on your left a short way along this corridor.

Opening Times

8.30am to 7.30pm Monday to Friday

8.30am to 12pm Saturday

Royal Oldham Hospital

Radiology (X-Ray) Department, Rochdale Road, Oldham OL1 2JH

Go to the Hospital Main Entrance, pass through the glass tunnel, the Radiology Department is the first department on the right.

Opening Times

8am to 7.45pm Monday to Friday

9am to 12pm Saturday

Oldham Community Diagnostic Centre

Salmon Fields, Royton, OL2 6JG

Opening Times

9am to 5pm Monday to Friday

What will happen after my chest x-ray?

You will be given more information by healthcare staff when you attend for your chest x-ray, including a leaflet. Your results will be sent to your address via letter.

If you have not received your results within 14 days, you should contact the Radiology department that you attended to check.