NHS Property Services has now opened the North Kent Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC).
The CDC aims to provide faster, more convenient access to a wide range of diagnostics for patients in Dartford and the surrounding area.
The CDC concept was first proposed in 2020 by Professor Mike Richards, former National Cancer Director and lead of the review of diagnostic services, which recommended a major expansion of diagnostic capacity and a new model for delivering services closer to communities.
“We are delighted to have supported the delivery of this fantastic new facility,” said Jackie Ducker, Chief Customer Officer at NHS Property Services. “It improves access to diagnostic services for thousands of patients across the local community and aligns with the government’s Ten Year Health Plan to shift care closer to people’s homes.”
The facility, designed and delivered by ModuleCo Healthcare is part of the national roll-out of new CDCs aimed at providing faster, more convenient access to diagnostic testing for local communities.
The CDC features MRI, CT, ultrasound, X-ray, phlebotomy, and cardiology investigations, all under one roof, with purpose-built clinical spaces, modern imaging suites, and improved patient facilities designed for comfort and accessibility.
Having an “all under one roof” approach, will help to reduce waiting times and provide convenient, community-based access to essential tests for local patients.
The opening on October 16 was attended by Health Minister Karin Smyth, Gravesham MP Lauren Sullivan, Dartford MP Jim Dickson, and NHS Property Services representatives. The visitors toured the new diagnostic suites and saw firsthand how the service is already helping patients access essential tests more quickly.
“The NHS should fit around patients’ lives, not the other way round,” said Minister Smyth. “This new Community Diagnostic Centre means the people of North Kent will be able to get checked more quickly, more conveniently, and closer to home.”
Smyth explained that the centre operates 12 hours a day, seven days a week, helping cut waiting lists and improve patient care.”
Local MP, Jim Dickson said: “This facility builds capacity in our local healthcare system, eases pressure on hospitals, and brings waiting lists down, helping patients access care where and when they need it.”
Jonathan Wade, Chief Executive of Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust, said: “Patients can access a range of diagnostic tests in one convenient location, shortening the pathway from test to treatment and ensuring they are seen in a calm, accessible environment rather than travelling to acute hospitals.”
Dr Tom Clark, Chief Medical Officer, said the opening was a “wonderful occasion” and noted the centre is already receiving positive feedback from patients.