Nuclear medicine is a special kind of imaging that uses radioactive substances (called tracers) for diagnosis and treatment of diseases. This kind of imaging can show how your organs function and how they are structured. It can also be used to treat a range of medical conditions.
Nuclear medicine has departments at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, and Good Hope and Heartlands hospitals.
Arrive on time for your nuclear medicine appointment
It is very important to be on time for your appointment.
Your radioactive tracer is ordered especially for you. If you are late for your appointment, you may not be able to have your scan that day and it will need to be rearranged.
If you are unable to attend or are going to be delayed, please telephone the relevant department at the earliest opportunity.
Your scan
It is very important you read your patient information leaflet carefully, as you may have to follow special instructions before attending your appointment.
It is very important we know if you are pregnant (or think you may be) or breastfeeding. If this is the case, please contact the department before you attend for your appointment.
Quality standard for imaging (QSI)
Nuclear medicine is committed to giving patients the best possible care and experience. To reflect this, the service is currently working towards QSI status.
You can find out more on The Royal College or the QSI online.
Get in touch
The department is open Monday to Friday, between the hours 08:30 - 17:00.
- 0121 371 2282 (Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham)
- 0121 424 7156 (Good Hope Hospital)
- 0121 424 0289 (Heartlands Hospital
Last reviewed: 25 March 2026