More than six million tests, scans and health checks have been carried out at community diagnostic centres (CDCs) across England, marking a significant step forward in the NHS's efforts to speed up diagnoses and treatment.
Since their launch in July 2021, the centres have brought healthcare closer to patients, whilst also offering a convenient and accessible alternative to traditional hospital settings.
"The government's £2.3 billion community diagnostic centre programme is the largest investment in MRI and CT scanning capacity in the history of the NHS," said Health and Social Care Secretary Victoria Atkins. "Placing high-tech equipment in places like shopping centres and near football stadiums makes it simpler for patients to get the care they need, as quickly as possible."
With 141 CDCs now open (including 40 brought forward ahead of schedule), patients can access a wide range of tests closer to home, reducing the need for hospital visits and potentially getting life-saving care sooner.
Services offered at the CDC’s include CT and MRI scans as well as X-rays and blood tests.
"Early diagnosis and treatment are key in preventing death and illness," said Dr Vin Diwakar, NHS medical director for transformation. "Millions of these tests have been performed at one of our 141 CDCs, situated in locations most convenient for patients. I would encourage anyone with a health concern to come forward and get checked – it could save your life."
The success of the CDCs is evident in the NHS's record-breaking 25.9 million tests and checks delivered over the past year, a 50% increase from a decade ago. This surge in diagnostic activity has played a crucial role in reducing waiting times.
According to the Government, this has, in part, lead to them meeting its target of virtually eliminating waits of over two years and also cutting 18-month waits by over 90% from the peak in September 2021.
The programme is further supported by £800 million in funding and the strategic use of independent sector capacity to ensure all NHS patients have access to timely and effective diagnostic services.
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