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Harnessing innovation and productivity gains through joined-up working to meet rising demand and reduce waits 

As the NHS is set to deliver the 10 Year Plan, ICSs are leading the transformation of elective and urgent care through smarter, more integrated diagnostics. With a mandate to expand capacity, harness digital innovation and reduce waits, system leaders are driving a new era of productivity, patient-centred and neighbourhood-based care. Yet, as diagnostics networks such as imaging and pathology continue to mature, developing a cohesive, system-wide diagnostics strategy remains a complex challenge.

The HSJ Modernising Diagnostics Forum brings equal focus to imaging and laboratory diagnostics, convening senior NHS leaders to turn national ambitions into practical action. Building on Prof. Sir Mike Richards’ 2020 review and the nationwide rollout of Community Diagnostic Centres (CDCs), the event explores how technology, workforce innovation, and next-generation facilities are reshaping diagnostics and improving outcomes across systems, places and neighbourhoods.

Join this one-day interactive forum to learn from case studies across the country, share ideas with 120+ peers, and explore how we can collectively scale innovation, boost productivity, and deliver faster, more equitable diagnostic services for the future NHS.

New for 2026 – The Modernising Diagnostics Forum will run alongside:

  • Cancer Forum – Improving cancer care from screening, prevention to treatment
  • New Genomics Track – harnessing genomics to personalise prevention and treatment

This co-location will create crossover audiences, broaden networking opportunities, and bring fresh voices and expertise into the cancer conversation—accelerating the scale and spread of best practice.

 

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What can you expect? 

  • 1 full day of leader insights and practical content for debate and discussion
  • Exposure to Award-winning case studies, thought leadership, and diverse viewpoints
  • Effective collaboration through intimate and solutions-focused interactive discussion groups
  • Your attendance is fully funded by HSJ and our event partners, with no cost to you 

Next steps... 

1. Book time out in your diary 
2. Register your interest 

 

2025 Highlights

To ensure the best possible experience for all attendees, please note the following requirements:

  • Morning attendance is essential – delegates are expected to attend the morning sessions of the Forum they have registered for. Freer movement between sessions will be available after lunch, subject to capacity.
  • Participation in IDGs – delegates commit to attending the Integrated Discussion Groups (IDGs) linked to their chosen Forum.
  • One insight session commitment – delegates agree to attend at least one insight meeting with an event partner as part of their Forum.
  • Priority access – if a room is nearing capacity, priority will be given to delegates registered for that Forum. Switching rooms is possible, but only if space allows. 
     

 

 

Key Themes

With equal focus on imaging and laboratory diagnostics, the Forum is your one-stop destination for shaping the future of diagnostic service delivery across ICSs, neighbourhoods, and local health economies. In 2025, discussions will centre on:

  • Designing system-wide diagnostic strategies that are outcomes-focused, support elective and UEC recovery, and align with the next phase of NHS Long Term Plan delivery.
  • Embedding Community Diagnostic Centres (CDCs) into neighbourhood care models, and exploring their long-term role, funding and sustainability.
  • Learning from more mature imaging and pathology networks to accelerate the maturity of networks such as endoscopy and wider diagnostic networks.
  • Improving access and reducing inequalities by expanding community-based diagnostics and strengthening system-place-neighbourhood integration.
  • Building workforce capacity and capability through new models of multidisciplinary working and skill mix innovation.

  • Harnessing technology and automation – from digital platforms that improve productivity to clinically effective applications of AI that transform diagnostic pathways and service delivery.

     

VIEW THE PROGRAMME 

What our delegates say

What our delegates say

" Essential think-tank for shaping the future of Diagnostics "
Chief Officer
Diagnostics Network
" Very informative and thought provoking "
Consultant Histopathologist
Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust
" A useful and thought provoking day which challenged my perceptions of the limits of what can be achieved in diagnostics in the NHS. "
Programme Manager
SEL Acute Provider Collaborative
" A useful reminder of the wholistic approach to diagnostics; patient centric, how to effectively support them on their journey, supporting an already challenged workforce to stay, and deliver outcomes the best we can. "
Director of Diagnostics
Sussex ICS
" Good networking, content and format weak; pathology stream came across as poor cousin "
Managing Director
NHS Trust Pathology Partnership
" A stimulating and thought provoking event for all diagnostics leaders and a great opportunity for networking. "
Chief Officer of GM Imaging and Pathology Networks
Greater Manchester Diagnostics Network

To find out more

Partnership opportunities:  Sponsorship Sales teams
Attendee Booking enquiries: Delegate Sales team