Over 6 Million NHS Tests Delivered at Community Diagnostic Centres
The NHS has smashed it — over six million tests, scans, and health checks have now been carried out at Community Diagnostic Centres (CDCs) across England. This milestone is a game-changer in cutting NHS waiting lists and speeding up diagnosis and treatment for patients.
Diagnostic Centres Everywhere — From Shopping Centres to Stadiums
Since launching in July 2021, these 141 CDCs have popped up in all sorts of places — shopping centres, university campuses, even football stadiums — making it easier than ever for patients to access vital health checks close to home. Of these centres, four are temporary, and 40 opened earlier than planned, showing the government’s serious commitment.
Cutting-Edge Tech and Quick Care on Your Doorstep
With advanced CT and MRI scanners on-site, the centres provide a wide range of diagnostic tests that slash the need for hospital trips, speeding up the chance of catching illnesses like cancer and heart disease early.
“The government’s £2.3 billion Community Diagnostic Centre programme is the biggest investment in MRI and CT scanning in NHS history,” said Health Secretary Victoria Atkins. “Putting state-of-the-art equipment in places like shopping centres and stadiums makes it easier for patients to get the care they need fast.”
Record Numbers and Early Diagnoses Saving Lives
NHS Medical Director for Transformation Dr Vin Diwakar praised NHS staff for delivering a whopping 25.9 million tests and checks in the past year — a massive jump of two million on the year before and nearly 50% more than a decade ago.
“If you’re worried about your health, don’t wait,” Dr Diwakar urged. “Getting checked early could save your life.”
Big Funding Boosts and Major Progress on Waiting Lists
Thanks to the £2.3 billion investment in CDCs and wider Elective Recovery Plan efforts, waits over two years have been almost wiped out. Plus, 18-month waits have been slashed by over 90% since late 2021.
In November, the government funneled £800 million to tackle ongoing industrial action impacts. It is also tapping into independent sector resources to ease NHS waiting times. Some CDCs are even run by independent providers but serve NHS patients as part of this vital push.
