New community hospital pledges to cut wait times

A new community hospital aimed at reducing NHS waiting times has been confirmed for Worthing.

CHEC, a provider of community healthcare, says the facility will "increase patient choice" by providing access to ophthalmology, gastroenterology, dermatology, and Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) services.

The hospital will be in Montague Street, near the seafront, and will also feature one ophthalmology theatre and one endoscopy suite.

Jose Bailey, chief commercial officer at CHEC, said "patient choice, exceptional care and equity of access are central" and that they are "proud to collaborate with NHS partners to help to keep waiting times to a minimum".

CHEC said once the hospital is open, treatments will be carried out within four weeks of receipt of referral.

"We've been trusted by the NHS to deliver healthcare services free of charge, and we can't wait to open our doors and become part of the Worthing community," Ms Bailey added.

Currently, CHEC, which stands for Community Health and Eyecare, has more than 30 community hospitals and 90 community clinics across the country.

Another centre is due to open soon at The Riverside, in Canterbury, Kent.

Follow BBC Sussex on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected] or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.