Since I was first elected as the MP in 2015, I've been passionate about ensuring our residents receive the vital healthcare services they need. The NHS is the cornerstone of our healthcare system, driven by the passion, commitment, and expertise of our healthcare professionals, that deliver such an important service. However, the rapid increase in our local population has placed significant pressure on the system.
One of the key steps we've taken to address these challenges is the introduction of Community Diagnostic Centres (CDCs). I'm particularly proud that Rochester is home to one of these 40 new CDCs, located at the Rochester Healthy Living Centre. The CDC was something that I had been pushing for several years, so I am pleased to see its use. During a recent visit to the site, I saw its role in enhancing diagnostic capacity, relieving pressure from hospital settings, and improving local healthcare services. The CDC is equipped with essential diagnostic tools, including a MRI Scanner, CT scanner, Echocardiogram, ECG, FeNo, Spirometry, Ultra-sound, and facilities for sleep studies. The objective is to gradually expand services to operate seven days a week. This will have a major impact on waiting times and accessibility for residents. I am optimistic that the services available to people in our local communities can continue to be improved.
Our local Medway Maritime Hospital staff work incredibly hard, but the hospital is struggling to keep up with the growing demand. That's why, alongside my fellow Medway MPs, I’ve been campaigning for a second hospital site at Lodge Hill. This new site would not only serve the Medway residents more importantly but also improve accessibility for those living on the Hoo Peninsula, especially given the number of houses that have been earmarked to be built there.
Investment in healthcare infrastructure is crucial, and I'm pleased to support Medway Hospital's business case to take over the old Debenhams building in Chatham High Street. This site will be used to increase the hospitals elective surgery capacity and will see the Endoscopy unit relocated to this site. I fully support this plan and have been working with the hospital to ensure that this can go ahead, this will help reduce the backlog on elective surgery due to the pandemic. Going forward, once the backlog has decreased, they will be able to offer elective surgery spaces to neighbouring foundation trusts, supporting healthcare systems across Kent.
In addition to these initiatives, Medway Maritime Hospital has recently unveiled a brand-new Cardio Respiratory ward, part of a £5 million upgrade project. I had the chance to visit the new facilities, and was pleased to see the progress of this ward, which will eventually feature top-notch facilities for patients dealing with serious heart or breathing issues, with over 30 extra beds and a specialised Respiratory Support unit.
Earlier this year, the Government launched the Pharmacy First, is another important step forward. Our highly trained pharmacists can now help with seven common issues, like sinusitis and sore throats, without the need for a doctor's appointment. Already, 11,500 pharmacies have signed up to the scheme, in a move set to free up a whopping 10 million GP appointments, making it easier for patients to get the help they need, when they need it. You don't even need to book an appointment, as patients can pop by their local pharmacy and get assistance without any hassle. Plus, pharmacies can even offer remote services where it makes sense, adding another layer of convenience. I recently dropped by Karsons Pharmacy, a beloved community staple, to see how they're faring with the Pharmacy First program. It's fantastic to see local pharmacies stepping up and embracing this initiative to serve our community better.
Healthcare is an issue that touches everyone, and I am committed to continuing the progress we've made. While challenges remain, I am dedicated to safeguarding the NHS and upholding the core values that have defined it for over 75 years. I will keep fighting to ensure that our residents have access to the quality healthcare they deserve.