New blood testing location in West Essex
From the 1 April, our community phlebotomy service will move from Forest Medical Centre (FMC) to Loughton Health Centre (LHC).
We understand that changes like these can raise some concerns and want to assure you that this transition has been made with careful consideration for the convenience and well-being of our patients. While we regret any inconvenience this may cause, we are confident that the services provided at LHC will continue to meet your needs with the same high standards of care.
Phlebotomy (blood tests), ENT (ear, nose and throat) and rheumatology are the services currently provided by FMC. While only phlebotomy will move to LHC, ENT and rheumatology clinics will be relocated to Whipps Cross Hospital.
FMC currently sees nearly 2000 people every month and the location is no longer able to keep up with current demand without extensive modification and it was agreed that relocating was the most feasible option. The LHC was also preferable due to its physical location in relation to access for the local community. The new facility is only a 10-minute walk away from FMC (see map below).
Despite the change in location, our commitment to providing you with high-quality care remains and our dedicated team of professionals will continue to deliver the same level of safe and compassionate care.
Before 1 April, patients should continue attending the FMC. Please ensure that any appointments scheduled after this date are attended at Loughton Health Centre. Your GP will be notified of the change and should no longer refer or advise attending FMC. Appointments for blood tests can be booked in the same way as before via Swiftqueue.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation during this transition period.
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Did you know you can access your blood test results via your phone