People in Waltham Forest can book their blood testing appointments online in a new improved service which aims to reduce long queues at health centres.

Waltham Forest Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) has introduced the new phlebotomy service after patients said they faced long waits at overcrowded centres, with some being sent home without receiving a test.  

At a recent launch event at Silverthorn Medical Centre in Friars Close, Chingford, service user Sue Harbour said: “Knowing I can book an appointment in advance and arrive at the blood centre at an allotted time means the new service will be much better than the old one.”

Another user Noel Hayes said: “Instead of having to wait for a slot, I can now book an appointment on the way to the shops using the kiosk.”

The service which is also available at St James Health Centre in Walthamstow and Langthorne Health Centre in Leytonstone is for patients referred for a blood test by their GP.

If a patient is unable to pre-book an appointment online they can avail of a walk-in service.

Dr Anwar Khan, chairman of Waltham Forest CCG, said: “We were aware from the comments we received that our blood testing service needed to change, so we listened carefully to what people were telling us and took action.

“Working closely with our patient groups, we’ve made a number of improvements and hope this will make the service more efficient, and much easier and quicker to use.

“The initial feedback we’ve received is very positive but we’ll be reviewing the service over coming months to ensure it runs as smoothly as possible for our patients and GPs.”

To book an appointment online click here