New Endoscopy unit arriving at Hospital of St Cross to increase testing provision

A new Endoscopy suite to provide more tests for patients with potentially life-threatening conditions and support earlier diagnosis is set to open in Rugby later this year.

University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire (UHCW) NHS Trust is permanently expanding its provision of endoscopy tests – designed to look at different parts of the human body – at the Hospital of St Cross.

The new suite will have additional facilities including three fully equipped procedure rooms, private discharge rooms, separate male and female waiting areas and a large reception area.

Part of a £34 million investment by the NHS nationally to speed up diagnosis for patients, the new suite is due to open in October 2023, treating up to 50 patients per day and providing better access to vital diagnostic procedures.

The two-storey unit is a modular build, meaning that the 22 units that make up the building, were built off site and then brought to Rugby. It was craned into position in the space of just four days at the end of June 2023.  

Work is now underway on the interior of the building, as well as being partially rendered on the outside to create a modern and spacious facility. Once construction has been completed the surrounding area will be landscaped with grass, trees and benches. There will be a dedicated drop-off zone and some additional disabled parking adjacent to the unit.

Professor Andy Hardy, Chief Executive Officer at UHCW NHS Trust, said: “This investment in Rugby demonstrates our commitment to further increasing the provision of services at the Hospital of St Cross, as outlined in our Organisational Strategy.

“The new Endoscopy suite means easier access to a range of diagnostic services, giving patients the best possible chance of earlier diagnosis and successful treatment.”  

The Endoscopy Unit will be accompanied in 2025 by a new Community Diagnostic Centre, also designed to deliver faster diagnosis and treatment, in Coventry City Centre