PATIENTS will be able to access NHS tests seven days a week in their local area, Sir Keir Starmer will promise today.
As part of the PM’s mission to reduce the wait for treatment to 18 weeks, he will pledge millions more appointments and streamlined diagnostics processes.
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And ministers will unveil new neighbourhood hubs for a range of testing rather than sending the sick to hospital.
Same day tests and consultations will also be expanded as well as improvements to the NHS app to streamline care.
GPs will also be able to direct patients straight to diagnostic testing, skipping out an appointment with a specialist to speed up the process.
Yesterday the Health Secretary warned the NHS risks going to the wall “like Woolies” without drastic reform.
Wes Streeting’s warning comes as Sir Keir prepared his first speech of the year on using tech to drive down waiting lists.
He said the new Elective Reform Plan unveiled today will show how the government will hit its “mission” to hit the 18 week target for all patients by the next election.
Speaking in Surrey today, the PM will say: “NHS backlogs have ballooned in recent years, leaving millions of patients languishing on waiting lists, often in pain or fear.
“Lives on hold.
“Potential unfulfilled.
“This elective reform plan will deliver on our promise to end the backlogs.
“Millions more appointments.
“Greater choice and convenience for patients.
“Staff once again able to give the standard of care they desperately want to.
“This is a key plank of our Plan for Change, which will drive growth that puts more money in people’s pockets, secures our borders and makes the NHS fit for the future so what working people live longer, healthier, more prosperous lives.”
