Rebecca Paul, Member of Parliament for Reigate, has welcomed the official opening of a new Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC) at The Belfry Shopping Centre in Redhill, describing it as a “really important step forward” for local healthcare.
The facility was formally opened yesterday by Stephen Kinnock, Minister of State at the Department of Health and Social Care, alongside Andrew Hines, Chief Executive of Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, and the Mayor of Reigate & Banstead, Rich Michalowski.
During the visit, Rebecca joined the Minister on a tour of the centre, meeting staff and some of the first patients to benefit from the new service, before taking part in a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
In its first 8 weeks since its doors opened in January, the new CDC has seen almost 1400 patients who would have otherwise had to travel to other sites. This facility means quicker access to diagnostic tests for thousands of local residents - ensuring earlier diagnosis and taking pressure off East Surrey Hospital.
Rebecca Paul MP commented:
“This is exactly the kind of investment we need, bringing healthcare closer to where people live. It means quicker access to vital diagnostic tests, earlier diagnosis, and ultimately better outcomes for patients.
“I’m particularly pleased to see healthcare provision being delivered in a town centre setting. The Belfry is a convenient and accessible location, helping patients whilst also supporting our local high street.
“I would like to thank everyone at Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust for their hard work in getting this centre up and running. It is a really important step forward for healthcare in our area.”
