Community Diagnostic Centres (CDC) Programme

The Community Diagnostic Centres (CDC) Programme was initiated to significantly enhance the diagnostic capacity within the NHS, improve patient outcomes, and address health inequalities. The programme aims to deliver streamlined and efficient diagnostic services across the UK.

Programme Targets for 2023/24

• Expansion: Up to 177 CDCs to be operational by March 2025, contingent on capital and revenue availability.
• Service Volume: 4 million tests to be delivered by the end of May 2023.
• Capacity: Annual capacity target of 9 million tests by March 2025.
• Cumulative Output: Aiming for 17 million tests from July 2021 to March 2025.
• Timeliness: 95% of patients will wait less than 6 weeks for diagnostic tests by March 2025.
• Availability: All CDCs are to provide a 7-day, 12-hour service.
• Utilisation Standards: Each CDC to meet optimal utilisation standards: CT: 3-4 tests per hour
  MRI: 2-3 tests per hour
  NOUS: 3 tests per hour
  Echo: 1 test per 45 minutes
  Endoscopy: 10 patients per service list or 8 patients per training list

Expected Outcomes

• Improved Staff Development and Satisfaction:
  The CDCs will provide an environment conducive to continuous professional development and training.
  Enhanced job satisfaction through involvement in cutting-edge diagnostic processes.
• Health Promotion:
  Incorporating the "Make Every Contact Count" initiative to support health promotion.
  CDCs will be pivotal for disseminating health information and promoting healthy lifestyles.
• Innovation and Quality Improvement:
  CDCs will be test sites for quality improvement initiatives, research, and innovation.
  Sharing best practices and learning across the CDC network and the broader healthcare system.
• Contribution to NHS Net Zero Ambitions:
  Implementing sustainable practices to reduce the carbon footprint of diagnostic services.
  CDCs will contribute to the NHS's goal of achieving net zero emissions.
• Anchor Institutions:
  CDCs will play a critical role in their communities, acting as anchor institutions that support local health systems.

Key Benefits

• Improved Population Health Outcomes: Enhanced access to diagnostic services will lead to early detection and better management of health conditions.
• Increased Diagnostic Capacity: The establishment of CDCs will significantly boost the NHS's capacity to conduct diagnostic tests.
• Improved Productivity & Efficiency: Streamlined operations and optimised utilisation of diagnostic equipment will lead to better productivity.
• Reduced Health Inequalities: The equitable distribution of CDCs will ensure that underserved communities have improved access to diagnostic services.
• Improved Patient Experience: Faster access to diagnostic tests and extended service hours will enhance the overall patient experience.
• Support for the Integration of Care: CDCs will facilitate better coordination and integration of care within the healthcare system.