A new imaging clinic is opening its doors to bring faster medical attention to people in the community.

Launched at The Hive London, home of Barnet Football Club, the facility has officially opened its doors.

Canon Medical Systems' new Imaging Centre at the stadium is the first in a series of planned diagnostic centres built to improve access to CT, MRI, ultrasound and X-rays.

This will mean patients can be referred by their GP, NHS or private consultant and be scanned within days.

A spokesperson from Canon Medical Systems said: “This will greatly speed up diagnosis, improve clinical decision making and treatment planning, thus reducing the anxiety and frustration experienced by some patients who are concerned by symptoms or experiencing pain.

“The facility will open 12 hours a day, seven days a week, extending to 24 hours as demand requires."

Richard Bartlett Chief operating officer at the centre said: “Skill shortages in the NHS are acute and the demand for innovative imaging scans as a frontline diagnostic test is outstripping capacity at most NHS hospitals.

“Our aim with TIC at Barnet Football Club is a blueprint for further community based imaging centres where patients can be seen quickly using the latest technology.

“Clinicians can swiftly gain access to detailed images and reports that they need to make an accurate and informed diagnosis.

“Greater imaging capacity across the UK will mean an improved flow of healthcare referrals that support the NHS and improve the overall wellbeing of local communities.”