I've just looked your questions up and yes you can self refer for an MRI  scan. If you contact private health companies they will help you sort this out, it can be done on line, obviously there will be a cost involved so make sure you know how much you will be charged.  I just want to say that many, many people post on this forum that they know it's cancer, even when tests have proved the opposite on the NHS.  So will you believe them more if you pay for it?  Bloating and abdominal pain can have many causes and most of them are not cancer related.  You're obviously at your lowest ebb and health anxiety can make things so much worse.  I hope you get the answers you need and let us know what happens. Best wishes, Carol 

So now you're questioning what you originally wanted to do to put your mind at rest. I truly think you need to consider having another appointment with your GP and explain how Ill you feel.  Carol 

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I definitely want to have the tests, no question about it.

It's just that I do not know what to make of the private MRIs without referral. If I know they are reliable I will go now. 

Thank you again. I really appreciate your responses.

Ask your gp for a private referral letter, then book snd appointment at your local private hospital. I did this last week to see a colorectal specialist. 
most of the doctors/radiographers/nurses and staff that work at private hospitals also work for the nhs. I saw the consultant who then refered me on the nhs for an urgent colonoscopy which I will have on Thursday 7 days after first seeing him. Which was quicker than having it done privately x

Hi,

many thanks, greatly appreciate it.

I wish you all the best for Thursday, X