Six new diagnostic centres to open in bid to cut NHS waiting lists

New community diagnostic centres (CDCs) to open in regions across the UK to help cut NHS waiting list times

Following a referral from a GP or consultant, patients will be able to get their symptoms checked much closer to home and receive a diagnosis for a range of conditions such as cancer and heart or lung disease, rather than travelling to hospital.

This is not only more convenient for patients, it is also more efficient for staff and will free up clinician time to help further cut the waiting lists.

Tens of thousands of patients across the country are set to benefit from the six new community diagnostic centres (CDCs) opening this year – with the ‘one-stop shops’ due to deliver more than 500,000 additional tests, checks and scans a year.

Regions including the East of England, Midlands and the South East will benefit with all new centres open to patients before the end of the year – with the government investing £2.3bn to deliver up to 160 across England by 2025.

Prime minister Rishi Sunak said: “I have pledged to cut waiting lists and these new community diagnostic centres will do exactly that. By offering checks, tests and scans closer to home, we can speed up the diagnosis of illnesses like cancer and heart disease and ensure patients get their treatment quickly.

“These centres revolutionise the way the NHS delivers care and crucially, they are saving lives.”

Health and social care secretary Steve Barclay also commented, saying: “We know early diagnosis and treatment leads to better outcomes for patients, which is why these centres are so vital.

“Based in the heart of communities, they are making it easier for people to access life-saving checks and cutting out unnecessary hospital visits.

“They have already made a huge difference, delivering nearly 4 million tests, checks and scans since the programme started in July 2021, helping to deliver on the government’s commitment to cut waiting lists.”