Convenience in Healthcare Isn’t a Luxury

Today I finally made time for something I’ve been putting off, a routine blood test. Nothing serious, don’t worry! Something I should do annually, but like most people, I find it hard to put my own health first whilst juggling family, work and voluntary roles. Prioritising our own health often slips down the list.

The drive-though blood testing facility is fantastic. It was introduced during the pandemic, but clearly here to stay because of how convenient it is. And honestly, it makes such a difference. I wonder how many lives it has saved by being so quick and convinient.

No repeatedly calling the GP surgery, hoping to get through after what feels like the 48th attempt. No waiting weeks for an appointment. No expensive parking or long bus journeys to the hospital, followed by navigating confusing corridors and sitting around worrying unnecessarily. Instead, it was quick, efficient, and stress-free.

The only downside? It’s a 40-minute drive away. It is similar for everyone in our ward.

That got me thinking, wouldn’t it be fantastic to have a similar facility on our side of the city? For too long, our area has been seen as too remote, too difficult or even too wealthy, when it comes to accessing public services. But the success of the existing facility shows that when there’s a need, solutions can be delivered and quickly.

Of course, setting something like this up isn’t simple. But it’s not impossible either. And the demand is clearly there.

I’d also love to see the concept expanded further, making it accessible not just for drivers, but for people walking, cycling, or using motorcycles. Convenience in healthcare shouldn’t depend on how you travel.

This is something I’m passionate about and committed to pushing for. Because making healthcare easier to access isn’t just a nice idea, it’s essential. It is essential to ensure that people that need blood tests are able to get them, with minimal hassle and maximum convenience.

As you can see from the map, it is very variable how long it takes to get from Dore & Totley train station to the blood testing centre.

If elected on 7th May, this is something I will push hard for, and find a way to get a new blood testing centre on our side of the city opened. Let's make it happen.