04 Jun 2026
A new state-of-the-art Community Diagnostics Centre (CDC) will act as a ‘one-stop shop’ for thousands of patients needing tests and diagnosis at St Albans City Hospital.
The new facilities form part of a major £100m investment which will also include new operating theatres, endoscopy and urology units.
The CDC has been designed to provide patients with quicker, more convenient access to a wide range of diagnostic services, including ultrasound, MRI and CT scans.
It will help reduce waiting times while easing pressure on busy acute hospital sites, with around 15,000 additional MRI and CT scans made available each year. These help diagnose a wide range of conditions, from injuries and infections to cancer and heart disease.
Stephen Alexander, 73, was the first patient to get an MRI scan at the new centre for an issue with his hips.
He said: “The new CDC seemed to be good. The facilities for changing were simple and it was right next to the actual unit, so it was all very efficient. The staff were good and I was in and out pretty quickly.”
Patients will be referred to the CDC by their GP, or hospital team when appropriate, helping people to get tested quickly. Using St Albans as a hub for diagnostics and planned surgery also helps acute hospitals focus on emergency and specialist care.
In July, West Herts will be opening four new operating theatres at St Albans City Hospital for planned operations.
Development of a new state-of-the-art endoscopy unit is also underway and will include a four-room endoscopy suite with dedicated clinical support and administrative spaces. It is expected to be completed next year.
Catherine Dugmore, chair of West Herts, who officially opened the building, said: “This magnificent new facility will ensure thousands of local people get faster diagnosis, and access to a wide range of services, including ultrasound, MRI and CT scans, closer to home. It could in some cases make a life-changing difference to people.
“Together with our new operating theatres and future endoscopy unit, this investment is helping transform St Albans City Hospital into a centre of excellence for diagnostics and planned care.”
