UK CT Scan Market Analysis

UK CT Scan Market Executive Summary

UK CT Scan Market was valued at $119.86 Mn in 2023 and is predicted to grow at a CAGR of 5.87% from 2023 to 2030, to $178.68 Mn by 2030.  

A CT scan, or computed tomography scan, is a sophisticated imaging procedure that uses X-rays to produce detailed cross-sectional images of the body. Unlike traditional X-rays, CT scans capture multiple views from various angles, which a computer then processes into a three-dimensional representation of internal structures such as organs, bones, and soft tissues. Before the scan, patients may prepare by wearing a gown and removing metal objects. Depending on the type of scan, they might need to ingest a contrast material to enhance the visibility of specific tissues. During the scan, patients lie on a table that moves through a donut-shaped scanner while X-ray images are taken. Afterward, a radiologist interprets the images to diagnose conditions like cancer, heart disease, bone fractures, internal bleeding, and injuries. While CT scans offer detailed diagnostic capabilities, they involve radiation exposure and can be costly, though advancements have minimized risks and enhanced safety. Other imaging options like X-rays, ultrasound, and MRI scans are considered based on specific medical needs and radiation concerns.

The prevalence and incidence of chronic diseases in the UK are increasing, driving a higher demand for CT scans for diagnosis and management. From 2019 to 2040, the UK is projected to see significant rises in dementia (45%), COPD (37%), heart failure (92%), chronic kidney disease (34%), cancer (31%), and diabetes (49%). Non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis incidence rose annually, with women's incidence increasing from 21.2 to 35.2 per 100,000 person-years and men's from 18.2 to 26.9 per 100,000 person-years. Mortality rates for bronchiectasis are significantly higher, with age-adjusted rates 2.26 times higher in women and 2.14 times higher in men. In the US, CT scans account for 75.4% of the effective radiation dose from all imaging procedures while representing only 11% of X-ray-based exams.

The market therefore is driven by significant factors like the rising prevalence of chronic diseases, technological advancements in CT scanners, and the growing geriatric population. however, the shortage of radiologists, high cost of equipment and procedures, and radiation exposure concerns restrict the growth and potential of the market.

A prominent player in this field is GE Healthcare, which launched a new refurbishing unit in Bangladesh for A1-Sure Ultrasound Systems, aiming to enhance accessibility to affordable ultrasound technology in developing regions, and Siemens Healthineers partnered with Microsoft to utilize Azure cloud services for AI-powered medical imaging solutions, aimed at advancing healthcare delivery with secure and scalable cloud computing. Other contributors include Canon Medical Systems, and NeuroLogica Corp. among others.

Market Dynamics

Market Growth Drivers

Rising Prevalence of Chronic Diseases: The prevalence of chronic diseases in the UK is increasing, with significant numbers of individuals affected by conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, dementia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart failure, chronic kidney disease, cancer, and diabetes. In 2021, approximately 7.6 Mn people in the UK were suffering from cardiovascular diseases according to the British Heart Foundation. These chronic conditions heavily rely on radiology services, including CT scans, for accurate diagnosis and effective management.

Technological Advancements in CT Scanners: Market players are investing heavily in research and development to introduce advanced CT scanners featuring reduced radiation exposure, enhanced image quality, and faster scanning times. The development and availability of higher-slice CT scanners, such as 128-slice and above, are expected to further boost demand for these technologies in the UK.

Growing Geriatric Population: The UK's aging population, which is more susceptible to chronic diseases, is driving the increased need for diagnostic imaging services like CT scans. Older adults with multiple health conditions have complex healthcare needs, leading to greater utilization of CT services for comprehensive diagnosis and monitoring.

Market Restraints

Shortage of Radiologists: There is a significant gap between the increasing installation of CT scanners and the availability of skilled radiologists capable of accurately interpreting CT data in the UK. Between 2012 and 2015, the number of CT and MRI scans increased by 29% and 26% respectively, while the number of consultant radiologists only grew by around 5%. This shortage of experienced radiologists can limit the optimal adoption and utilization of CT scanners.

High Cost of Equipment and Procedures: The substantial capital and operating costs associated with advanced CT scanners, coupled with the high costs of CT examinations, can constrain market growth in the UK. Additionally, inadequate reimbursement for CT scans poses another barrier to the widespread adoption of these technologies.

Radiation Exposure Concerns: Ongoing concerns about the potential health risks associated with cumulative radiation exposure from increased CT utilization, particularly in vulnerable populations such as children, may lead to more stringent regulations and guidelines on the appropriate use of CT scans in the UK. This cautious approach may restrict the frequency and scope of CT scan usage.

Regulatory Landscape and Reimbursement Scenario

The regulatory landscape for CT scanners in the UK is overseen primarily by the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), which requires manufacturers to obtain marketing authorization before selling or using their devices. Although the UK has left the EU, it has adopted the Medical Devices Regulation (MDR) as part of its national legislation, ensuring high safety and performance standards for medical devices. Additionally, the Ionising Radiation (Medical Exposure) Regulations (IR(ME)R) protect patients and staff from radiation risks, emphasizing scan justification, operator training, and dose monitoring.

In the UK, the National Health Service (NHS) provides most CT scans free at the point of access, with funding and commissioning managed by Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) based on patient needs and cost-effectiveness. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) develops guidelines that influence these decisions, ensuring appropriate and efficient use of resources. Reimbursement for CT scans is influenced by medical necessity, adherence to NICE guidelines, cost-effectiveness, and clinical need, with the NHS prioritizing scans that provide significant diagnostic value while considering more cost-effective alternatives when appropriate.

Competitive Landscape

Key Players

Here are some of the major key players in the UK CT Scan Market:

• GE HealthCare
• Koninklijke Philips N.V.
• Siemens Healthineers AG
• Canon Medical Systems
• NeuroLogica Corp.
• Shanghai United Imaging Healthcare Co., Ltd.
• Fujifilm Holdings Corporation
• Shenzhen Anke High-tech Co., Ltd.
• Koning Health
• Carestream Dental LLC.