FAQs
Where to come
Spire Shawfair Park Hospital
10 Easter Shawfair
Edinburgh
EH22 1FE
Tel: 0131 654 5600
How long is the test?
A NCS /EMG examination will take between several minutes up to an hour depending on the complexity of the test.
Can I bring somebody with me?
Yes and your accompanying person can come with you into the examination room if you wish. If you require a translator please do let us know in advance.
Unfortunately we do not have any childcare facilities and cannot accommodate pets. Guide dogs however are welcome.
What to wear
Please come wearing loose clothing that can be easily rolled up above the elbows and knees.
We may ask you to change into a hospital gown.
We may ask you to remove jewellery, watches, rings etc.
Any “Dos and don’ts”
+ Do relax – it is our job to make the test as pleasant an experience as we can.
+ Do be on time and let us know if you’re running late or can’t attend.
– Don’t worry about the test, if you wish you can contact us and we’ll do our best to help
– Don’t use creams or lotions on your skin before the test – it prevents our stickers from sticking and makes performing the test more difficult.
Please note: Emergencies do happen / patients can feel become unwell which can affect our schedule. We will keep you informed if this is the case and we will get to you as soon as we can.
What happens after the test?
You are free to leave the department and a typed report will be sent to your referrer.
Do I get the result on the day?
In some cases a verbal report will be provided – however in some cases further analysis is required and a report will be sent out as soon as possible to your referrer.
Cancellation policy
We are flexible with regards to rescheduling tests, especially if you are unwell and unable to attend. If you wish to no longer attend for the test we will not charge for the test if you provide 48 hours notice beforehand. Within 48 hours we will try to reschedule your appointment. Last minute cancellations / no shows carry a 25% cancellation fee to cover administration, staff and accommodation costs.
How do I pay?
We work in partnership with the CIVICA Medical Billing and Collection Company who manage the majority of our payments. Payment is upon receipt of an invoice.
For patients who are self paying
You can pay the CIVICA Medical Billing & Collection Company who will invoice you after the appointment via credit card over the phone or on their website (listed on the invoice).
Patients with private health insurance
Please help us by bringing details of your private medical insurance cover and any pre-authorisation code supplied by your insurer. Or you can email us these details to our secretary. Depending on your cover, you may be required to pay an excess which will be charged to you directly. Your insurance company will inform you whether this applies. If this is the case, you will receive an invoice electronically for payment of any shortfall.
Which Insurers do you recognise?
All major insurers are recognised, please contact us / or your insurer if your insurer is not listed below.
Is my personal information safe and confidential?
We are registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office and work within GDPR guidelines.
What languages do you speak?
Dr Shaikh speaks English, Urdu, Gujarati, Basic French
Can I request a chaperone?
Yes – please indicate to us that this is the case at the beginning of the test.
I am on a medication do I need to stop this for the test?
Most medications do not need to be stopped for the purposes of the test. Blood thinners such as Apixaban and Warfarin may require to be stopped – contact us if you are on these.
Specialist medications such a Pyridostigmine (Mestinon) may need to be stopped also – contact us.
I have specific conditions / am pregnant – are these tests safe?
Yes – though if you have a specific query do feel free to contact us.
I have a pacemaker / implanted cardioverter defibrillator (ICD)
Pacemakers are generally safe with this test. ICDs are also compatible with this test but please do tell us at the time of your test.
Do you see children?
We are able to provide testing from 15 years and above.
Can I get a copy of the report?
Generally yes but In some cases we may need to liaise with your referrer first. We will then supply a copy of the report in line with GDPR guidance.