NHS services to be available from more shopping centres and high streets
The government’s increased funding for the NHS will make diagnostic scans and treatment available in more convenient locations across the UK.
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves today confirmed £6 billion of investment over the next five years, which will help deliver new scanners and more community diagnostic centres, in addition to the 170 already active across the country.
The government also aims to deliver more ambulances and Urgent Treatment Centres to support emergency care teams.
This funding will give patients better access to diagnostic scans and treatment in more convenient locations, including shopping centres and local high streets, providing faster diagnoses and a smoother experience.
Improving the convenience of accessing NHS services and shifting focus from treatment to prevention is part of the government’s strategy to meet it’s commitment of cutting waiting lists and seeing 92% of patients starting treatment within 18 weeks of referral.
“Over a decade of underinvestment from the previous government put the NHS on its knees, with people across the country unable to get the care they need. We are investing in Britain’s renewal, and we will turn that around,” Reeves said.
“Part of our record investment will deliver 4 million tests, scans and procedures, so hard working people can get the health care they and their families need.”
The government also plans a number of reforms for the NHS, including investing in new technology such as robotic assistance for surgeries, and cutting red tape to allow GPs to spend more time treating patients.
“Since taking office we have been relentless in our drive to cut waiting times for patients, delivering over 3.6 million extra elective care appointments and reducing the overall waiting list by over 200,000,” said Wes Streeting, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care.
“Through our Plan for Change we are delivering the investment and reform needed to put the NHS on the road to recovery.”
