Breathlessness pathways at a Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC) provide a streamlined approach to help patients with unexplained or persistent breathlessness. It brings together multiple diagnostic tests, clinical consultation, and a tailored care plan in one place—reducing delays, avoiding unnecessary hospital visits, and ensuring early, accurate diagnosis for conditions such as respiratory or cardiac disease. This model improves patient outcomes, shortens waiting times, and strengthens NHS resilience by delivering care closer to home.

Soon, more patients across the region will benefit from breathless pathways within CDCs – like the one in Halifax, where 19 GP Practices currently refer people onto the pathway—helping people get faster tests and support and avoiding hospital admission.

Integrated care centres, like the Jean Bishop Centre are transforming support for frail and elderly residents—bringing services together under one roof. 

Building on the Jean Bishop Centre model, a new frailty service is live at Alfred Bean Hospital in Driffield—taking a proactive approach to support severely frail patients, reducing hospital visits and admissions. 

Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust’s virtual ward is a leading example of how the NHS is safely shifting more care into the community. By providing hospital-level treatment and monitoring in people’s homes, the virtual ward supports patients with conditions such as respiratory illness, frailty, or heart failure to recover where they feel most comfortable. This approach not only helps to prevent unnecessary hospital admissions and speed up safe discharges, but also frees up beds for those who need them most. The service is backed by specialist clinical oversight and delivered by a dedicated team working closely with existing community services. It’s a clear demonstration of the NHS’s commitment to modern, patient-centred care outside traditional hospital settings.