NHS leaders have secured funding to open a new early diagnosis centre in March 2020 – the first of its kind in the country.
The centre will be based at Mile End Hospital, but it will be for any patients in Redbridge, Havering, Barking and Dagenham, Tower Hamlets and Newham.
The plan aims to make it easier and faster to get a diagnostic test, to improve cancer detection and survival rates.
It will include endoscopy, ultrasound and CT facilities, but the second phase will include MRI.
It will begin by offering tests to patients living with specific conditions and for GP referrals for certain suspected cancers before expanding.
Tests will come with shorter waiting times, more choice of appointments including weekends, fewer cancellations and support from dedicated staff funded by Macmillan.
Have your say here.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here