In recent years, the NHS has brought its healthcare services closer to local people by integrating Community Diagnostic Centres (CDCs) and health hubs into non-traditional settings such as shopping centres, university campuses and even football stadiums. This strategic move aims to enhance patient accessibility, reduce pressures on hospitals and contribute to the revitalisation of town centres, writes Tony Huggins, Managing Director, David Bailey Furniture Systems.
The success of these community-based health hubs relies on both their strategic locations and good internal design. High-quality fitted furniture will also play a crucial role in ensuring that these spaces are functional, welcoming and conducive to health and healing. But why should this be the case?
In healthcare settings, infection control is paramount. Fitted furniture designed with non-porous materials and seamless surfaces can significantly reduce the risk of bacterial accumulation and transmission. This is why we prioritise the use of materials that are easy to clean and maintain, supporting stringent hygiene protocols essential in a medical setting.
Creating a comfortable and accessible environment further enhances patient experience and satisfaction. Ergonomically designed fitted furniture, appropriate lighting and intuitive layouts contribute to a space where patients feel at ease, which can positively impact their overall perception of care.
Equally important, efficiently designed workspaces in CDCs, equipped with functional and reliable fitted furniture, enable healthcare professionals to perform their duties effectively. By reducing physical strain and optimising workflow, well-designed environments also contribute to staff well-being and productivity.
The evolution of community diagnostic centres
The concept of CDCs emerged as a response to the growing need for accessible and efficient diagnostic services. Traditionally, patients would visit hospitals for tests such as MRI scans, X-rays and blood analyses. However, this model often led to overcrowded facilities and extended waiting times. By establishing CDCs in community settings, the NHS aims to decentralise diagnostic services, making them more convenient for patients and reducing the burden on hospital resources.
As of August 2024, 165 CDCs were operational across England, located in diverse settings including shopping centres, university campuses and football stadiums. These centres have collectively delivered over nine million tests, checks and scans, significantly enhancing diagnostic capacity and patient experience.
Locating CDCs within shopping centres and other community hubs offers unparalleled convenience for patients. Individuals can combine their healthcare appointments with routine activities such as shopping, reducing the need for multiple trips and making it easier to fit medical appointments into their daily schedules. This approach is particularly beneficial for those with mobility challenges or limited access to transportation.
By diverting diagnostic services away from traditional hospital settings, CDCs also help to reduce congestion in hospitals, allowing these institutions to focus more effectively on acute and emergency care. This redistribution of services contributes to shorter waiting times and improved patient outcomes across the healthcare system.
Revitalising town centres
The establishment of health hubs in shopping centres and other community spaces can also stimulate local economies by increasing foot traffic and encouraging the use of adjacent businesses. This symbiotic relationship benefits both the healthcare sector and local commerce, contributing to the overall vitality of town centres.
Furthermore, delivering services closer to where people live reduces the need for extensive travel, thereby contributing to the NHS's goal of minimising its environmental impact. By integrating healthcare services into existing community infrastructures, the NHS can reduce its carbon footprint while enhancing service delivery — and it is already delivering benefits.
There are already several projects that exemplify the successful integration of healthcare services into community settings. Plans are underway for a comprehensive health hub in Thanet, incorporating a community diagnostic centre, primary and community care services and support from voluntary sector partners like Age UK. This initiative aims to provide a holistic approach to community health and well-being.
We also have the James Williams Healthy Living Centre, located within the Pentagon Shopping Centre in Chatham. This forthcoming centre will offer a broader range of services than traditional GP practices, enhancing accessibility and convenience for local residents. David Bailey Furniture is pleased to have been selected to provide fitted furniture for this facility, ensuring a functional and welcoming environment for patients and staff.
The NHS has further expanded its centre at The Mall Wood Green shopping centre, demonstrating the scalability and adaptability of integrating healthcare services into retail environments. Plans are also in place for an all-in-one healthcare hub in Broadstairs, Kent, potentially repurposing the former Canterbury Christ Church University building adjacent to the Westwood Cross shopping centre. This strategic location aims to maximise accessibility for the community.
Comprehensive services
In addition to traditional diagnostic services, many health hubs are expanding their facilities to provide essential sensory health assessments within the community. There are also plans to offer nutritional counselling and support to promote healthier lifestyles, space to administer flu and COVID-19 jabs to enhance public health resilience and time to provide appointments beyond standard hours to accommodate diverse patient schedules.
As the NHS continues its ambitious expansion of community diagnostic centres and health hubs, there is a growing recognition that healthcare must also evolve to meet modern needs. Patients expect convenient, high-quality healthcare that integrates seamlessly into their daily lives. By repurposing shopping centres, university campuses and other community spaces into healthcare facilities, the NHS is leading a healthcare revolution that prioritises accessibility, efficiency and sustainability.
At David Bailey Furniture, we are proud to be part of this transformation by providing high-quality, infection-resistant fitted furniture that ensures these new healthcare environments are built to last. As the NHS continues to reshape healthcare delivery, we remain committed to supporting this vision.
For further information visit www.davidbaileyfurniture.co.uk