Tens of thousands of patients across England can now access vital diagnostic tests and scans out of hours, thanks to the expansion of 100 Community Diagnostic Centres operating evenings and weekends.
This major step forward in NHS accessibility means patients no longer have to choose between work and essential health appointments.
Since July 2024, over 7.2 million tests and scans have been delivered through CDCs, which are located in convenient community settings such as shopping centres, university campuses, and local hospitals. Many centres offer free parking, making it easier for patients to attend appointments.
According to the latest NHS England data, over 1.6 million more tests and scans were delivered between July 2024 and June 2025 compared to the previous year. The NHS also achieved its highest-ever June performance on the Faster Diagnosis Standard, with 76.8% of patients receiving a cancer diagnosis or ruling within 28 days—benefiting nearly 100,000 more people than the previous year.
CDCs are already transforming care across the country. For example:
- Oldham CDC reduced lung cancer diagnosis times from 42 days to just 18.8 days.
- Queen Victoria Hospital CDC in East Grinstead increased respiratory patient interactions fivefold, with 92% avoiding hospital outpatient appointments.
These improvements are part of the government’s Plan for Change, which aims to move care out of hospitals and into communities, embrace cutting-edge technology, and redesign services around patients’ needs. The plan is backed by £6 billion in capital investment over five years, including £600 million for 2025–2026 to expand diagnostic capacity and fund up to five new CDCs.
NHS England’s National Medical Director, Professor Meghana Pandit, said:
“We know people are living incredibly busy lives, and it’s vital NHS care reflects that.
“The services provided by community diagnostic centres enable people to receive the all-clear or a diagnosis at a time and location that suits them - whether before a school drop-off or after a work shift - and extending their opening hours means more people are being seen more quickly.
“So, if anyone has any health concerns, we urge them to seek NHS advice so they can get the care they need.”
Patients can be referred to CDCs by their GP or hospital teams, with schemes like GP Direct Access making referrals easier and reducing the need for multiple outpatient visits.
By extending CDC opening hours and improving access, the NHS is speeding up diagnosis, reducing hospital pressure, and delivering care that works for working people.
Image credit: iStock
