Understanding the diagnostic challenge

01. Demand for diagnostic services has significantly increased

An ageing UK population, an increased awareness of diagnostic services and improving technology has meant there has been a surge in demand for diagnostic scans over the last 10 years. A growing trend that needs to be carefully managed.

02. Widescale impact of COVID-19

As with other heath-care services, Covid 19 has severely impacted diagnostic services across the NHS.  Reduced throughput on key modalities and prioritisation of Covid-19 testing has seen an 10x increase in waiting lists and it's predicted that 1.2m scans will be needed within 12 months to restore diagnostic services to pre-pandemic levels. 

02. Widescale impact of COVID-19

As with other heath-care services, Covid 19 has severely impacted diagnostic services across the NHS.  Reduced throughput on key modalities and prioritisation of Covid-19 testing has seen an 10x increase in waiting lists and it's predicted that 1.2m scans will be needed within 12 months to restore diagnostic services to pre-pandemic levels. 

Community Diagnostic Hubs (CDHs) present an opportunity to transform diagnostic service delivery in the NHS

Community Diagnostic Centres (CDCs) present an opportunity to transform diagnostic service delivery in the NHS

How will Community Diagnostic Centres help?

Separation of acute and

elective diagnostic services

As a highly productive centre for elective diagnostics CDCs release pressure on acute services. Offering same-day diagnostics and improving outcomes.

Vast increase in capacity

CDCs are high throughput facilities - adding significant capacity to the NHS, and meeting both current and future diagnostic demand.

Improved patient experience

Services will be closer to home and improve the patient experience. Further, its patient-centric layout reduces patient journey and contributes to the NHS ambition to become net zero

One-stop diagnosis

A range of diagnostic services under one roof, in the same location, on the same day. Quicker and safer for the patient.


This new approach is arguably more accessible, convenient and joined up than existing pathways.

Centres of excellence

The co-location of a wide range of diagnostic services will enable the sharing of knowledge and expertise.


Allowing CDCs to be centres of excellence for cutting-edge diagnostic research.

Better patient outcomes

Patients will receive life-saving checks close to their homes and benefit from significant investment in services, equipment and workforce.


Leading to better outcomes for patients with cancer and serious conditions.

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