Bridgwater Diagnostic Centre opens its doors to improve healthcare access in Somerset
New facility aims to provide faster and closer diagnostics
A diagnostic centre located alongside Bridgwater Community Hospital is set to open today (Wednesday, 19th August), to help people in Somerset access vital diagnostic tests closer to home.
The state-of-the-art Bridgwater Diagnostic Centre was celebrated by guests during its opening event, marking the completion of the £17.8 million facility.
The centre is part of a government-backed initiative to expand diagnostic facilities across England, with Somerset NHS Foundation Trust receiving £17.8 million in support from NHS England.
Health Minister Karin Smyth highlighted the importance of the new centre, saying it will offer convenient diagnostic services to the community, reducing reliance on hospitals and aligning with efforts to rebuild the NHS.
Martin Wilkinson, director of performance and delivery at NHS England South West, praised the centre for its potential to provide a range of diagnostics closer to home, marking a positive step towards early diagnosis and shorter waiting times.
The Bridgwater Diagnostic Centre offers MRI and CT capabilities and introduces the region's first dedicated urology investigation unit.
Somerset NHS Foundation Trust partnered with Ergéa UK to develop the centre, forming part of a broader programme to increase diagnostic capacity and improve patient experience.
Adam Turner, head of imaging at Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, noted the project as a significant milestone for healthcare in Somerset and an essential step toward patient-focused diagnostic services.
The centre is also expected to free-up capacity in Somerset's acute hospitals and improve planned care services outside of traditional hospital settings. Later this year, Somerset NHS Foundation Trust will introduce further urology investigation facilities within the centre.
The Bridgwater Diagnostic Centre continues building on Somerset's community diagnostic programme initiated in Taunton in 2021 and Yeovil earlier this year. It marks a major investment in modern healthcare for the county.
Representatives from Ergéa UK and Actiform reflected on the successful collaboration to bring the project to fruition, with shared dedication contributing to a rapid development timeline without sacrificing quality or performance.
The centre promises to transform how diagnostic services are delivered in Somerset, making tests more accessible, quick, and convenient for local residents.