The Department of Health and Social Care has announced that "tens of thousands more patients are getting crucial diagnostic scans within weeks", under the Government's Plan for Change.
The latest data shows 44,000 fewer people were waiting more than 6 weeks for procedures like endoscopies, ultrasounds and MRIs compared to February last year (2024). It means some patients being referred for suspected illnesses including heart conditions, spinal cord injuries and various cancers could be diagnosed faster, helping save lives.
The government is continuing to expand community diagnostic centres (CDCs) nationwide, offering 12-hour, 7-day access to vital tests and appointments. The expansion is funded from the extra £26 billion investment in the health service delivered at the Autumn Budget, with the aim of bringing care closer to communities who need it.
Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said: "I’ve been honest that fixing our NHS will be a long road, but this government is bringing in the investment and reform that’s needed to get us there. The additional diagnostic capacity we’ve unlocked isn’t just about numbers on a spreadsheet - it’s about giving people their lives back.Every ultrasound, MRI or endoscopy represents someone who can now plan their future with certainty rather than fear. Through our Plan for Change, we will get our NHS back on its feet and make it fit for the future."
There are currently 169 conveniently located CDCs across the country, bringing care closer to patient’s doorsteps. Many of these will be opened 12 hours a day, 7 days a week where possible, making it easier for people to get their tests and appointments done at a time that suits them. Between July and February, around 4.5 million tests, checks and scans were carried out in CDCs - a 50% increase on the previous year.
This equates to 18,000 more checks being delivered every day for patients to diagnose some of the biggest killers - including cancer and heart disease.
Dr Rhydian Phillips, Director of Diagnostics and Transport at NHS England, said: "CDCs are vital in helping ensure patients can get the all-clear or be diagnosed and treated for a range of conditions as quickly as possible.They are helping us to see more people than ever before and are at the heart of communities in locations that are more convenient for patients - with some even popping up in shopping centres.
"NHS staff are working incredibly hard to provide more tests and checks, while our campaigns encouraging people to come forward with worrying signs are also hugely important. If anyone has any health concerns, we would urge them to seek help and advice as it could save their life."
Responding to the DHSC announcement on diagnostic test waiting times, Chief Executive of the Patients Association, Rachel Power, said:
"Faster access to diagnostic tests is a welcome step as early diagnosis can be life-changing for patients facing serious health concerns. We know from our work on diagnostics that many patients want services closer to home, and Community Diagnostic Centres are a vital part of making that happen.
“But we continue to hear from patients who are still waiting too long for tests and treatment, and progress must be sustained and felt equally across the country. Further investment in moving care closer to home must reach underserved communities, so no one is left behind."
