'Drop-in’ chest x-ray service intended to catch lung cancer early continues in Manchester

Since the COVID pandemic hit, the NHS has reported that the number of people coming into hospitals to get checked for lung cancer has significantly reduced.

In a bid to avoid unnecessary illness, catch the killer early, and offer treatment to anyone who may need it, the NHS is offering a valuable new service that is expected to help identify patients who may be at risk.

Since Monday July 11, members of the public residing in Bury, Heywood, Rochdale and Middleton have been able to access a hassle-free chest x-ray at their local hospital, without having to see a GP, or even book an appointment in advance.

Getting checked has never been easier, and the service has been a great success so far, with lots of people reportedly dropping into the relevant hospitals. The NHS is encouraging those who are experiencing ongoing symptoms which could indicate lung problems, to keep on coming forward and take advantage of this new, no-appointment necessary service.

The roll out of this incredible scheme not only intends to offer peace of mind for many, who may be experiencing niggling worries about their health, but to also expose the cases which may need extra attention quickly. Conditions like lung cancer are much more treatable when they are caught early, so this service hopes to make timely diagnoses, to help prolong life.

The new initiative will be operating in the radiology departments at Fairfield Hospital, The Royal Oldham Hospital and Rochdale Infirmary, between 8am and 8pm Monday to Friday, and 9am-12pm on Saturdays.

Dr Seamus Grundy, a Consultant Respiratory Physician working in Greater Manchester, said: "We know people live busy lives and often don’t feel able to take time out of their day to make an appointment to get