Stockport NHS Diagnostic Project Receives National Recognition at HSJ Awards
A collaborative initiative between Stockport NHS Foundation Trust and its partners, aimed at expanding diagnostic access for residents in Stockport and Tameside, has been highly commended at this year's national Health Service Journal (HSJ) Independent Healthcare Providers Awards. These prestigious awards serve as a national platform to celebrate excellence, share successful practices, and underscore the increasing role of independent healthcare providers in the ongoing transformation of the NHS.
Partnership and Project Details
Staff from Stockport NHS Foundation Trust and Tameside and Glossop Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust attended the awards ceremony with support from project partner InHealth. InHealth Group collaborated with both NHS trusts to establish the South East Manchester Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC) at the Crown Point Shopping Retail Centre in Denton. This facility provides high-tech scanning, heart tests, and other diagnostic services, catering to over 24,000 patients annually across the two trusts.
Impressive Service Statistics
Between November 2024 and November 2025, the CDC conducted more than 9,100 CT scans, 6,600 MRI scans, 3,800 echocardiograms, 2,700 DEXA scans, and 1,500 ultrasound appointments. These figures highlight the centre's significant contribution to local healthcare delivery and its role in improving patient access to essential diagnostic procedures.
Award Recognition and National Impact
InHealth was shortlisted in the 'Best Provider of Community and Primary Care' category and awarded highly commended in the 'Best Provider of Diagnostic Services' category. This recognition acknowledges their outstanding contribution to the NHS 10-year plan through the delivery of a nationwide CDC programme. Through innovative digital integration, workforce expansion, and community engagement, InHealth has opened eight CDCs across the country in under two years, enhancing access and patient experience for over 150,000 people.
This nationwide programme has been instrumental in expanding diagnostic capacity, reducing waiting times, and bringing care closer to home. Stepping Hill Hospital, located in Stockport, Greater Manchester, is part of this broader effort to improve healthcare services in the region.
