As a result of the investment, four new CDCs will be opened in Gorton, Luton, Boston and Bideford during 2026/27. A further 17 will be physically expanded, and 15 will receive enhancements to increase diagnostic capacity.

Dr Bernie Croal, Royal College of Pathologists’ President, said:

‘This additional investment is greatly appreciated. Pathology services form an integral component of Community Diagnostic Centres. From monitoring heart disease to checking kidney function or diagnosing diabetes, the centres bring diagnosis and treatment into community settings. These centres are also instrumental in tackling health inequalities, delivering improved access to diagnostic testing, reduced waiting times and earlier diagnosis for patients.’

NHS in England carried out over 29 million diagnostic tests in 2025.

The aim of CDCs is to boost NHS diagnostic capacity and deliver more care in local communities. This enables patients access to a greater range of tests at their local centre closer to where they live, reducing the need to travel to hospital.

CDCs are located in community settings including high streets, shopping centres, and retail parks and many are open 12 hours a day, seven days a week.