The centre was developed by Somerset NHS Foundation Trust as part of its long-standing managed service partnership with Ergéa UK, and forms part of a national programme to increase diagnostic capacity, support earlier diagnosis, and reduce waiting times for patients.
Offering MRI and CT capacity, as well as Somerset’s first urology investigation unit, the centre is expected to provide almost 25,000 additional scans every year for people across Bridgwater and the wider Somerset area.
Health Minister Karin Smyth said: “The NHS should fit around people’s lives, not the other way around. This brand-new, state-of-the-art centre for Bridgwater is going to offer convenient tests, checks, and scans, without a trip to hospital.
“Community Diagnostic Centres like this one are a vital part of how we’re rebuilding the NHS and getting people seen on time again. More of these will soon be opening across the country through our £237 million investment in new, expanded, and enhanced centres just like this.”
Martin Wilkinson, director of performance and delivery at NHS England South West, said: “It is great that this latest community diagnostic centre in Bridgwater is now open, offering a range of diagnostics closer to home for many people in Somerset.
“We have worked hard with providers and integrated care boards across the region over the past few years to build CDCs across the south west so that people can get an earlier diagnosis and reduce waiting lists.”
Adam Turner, head of imaging at Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, added: “This week marks an important milestone for healthcare in Somerset and it’s fantastic to officially open Bridgwater Diagnostic Centre.
“Aligned with one of the NHS’s key shifts – to move care from hospital to community – this facility will help us provide faster access to vital diagnostic tests, support earlier diagnosis, and make it easier for patients to be cared for closer to home.
“The centre has been designed around the needs of patients, providing high-quality facilities, the latest diagnostic technology, and a modern environment that offers an excellent experience for those using our services.
“It is also helping us free-up capacity across our two acute hospitals in Somerset, supporting better care for inpatients.”