Getting your scans and tests at the Community Diagnostic Centre in the Metrocentre
The Community Diagnostic Centre in the Metrocentre offers patients different checks, scans and tests.
These services are available outside the main hospital, allowing you to get appointments more quickly and at convenient times, including evenings and weekends. We know that getting any medical test can be worrying, so we will try to make the process quick and easy for people.
The Centre is a joint project between Gateshead Health and Newcastle Hospitals. It uses the same high-quality equipment that the hospitals use.
Tests and services available
We offer a range of diagnostic testing services, including:
- Scans such as Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Ultrasound
- Heart tests, for example, echocardiograms (ECG), holter monitors and ambulatory blood pressure monitoring
- Lung tests and sleep studies
- Blood tests
How to get to the Community Diagnostic Centre
The Community Diagnostic Centre is located in the Metrocentre at the Town Square – this is in between the red and the green malls with the entrance above Harrods Beauty.
How to find us inside the Metrocentre
You can access the centre on the 1st floor, next door to Hays Travel, and will enter a corridor. You will see steps and a lift at the end of the corridor. We recommend using the lift as the scans are located on the ground floor behind Harrods Beauty.
How to find us outside of the Metrocentre
You can also access the main entrance to the centre by walking from either the green or red car park. See highlighted area on the map below. You may recognise this as the former House of Fraser site.
The address for the Community Diagnostic Centre is Metrocentre, 2 Cameron Walk, Gateshead, NE11 9YR.
How to get to the Metrocentre?
The Metrocentre is easily accessible by various modes of transport.
By car, it’s located directly off the A1, with clear signage from both north and south directions, and offers over 10,000 free parking spaces. The nearest parking to the CDC is Small Green, with multi-storey options available in Red, Blue, and Yellow Zones.
By train, the Metrocentre has its own station, just 7-8 minutes from Newcastle Central, with regular services from multiple locations.
The bus station serves over 100 buses per hour, including fast links to Newcastle and Gateshead.
Cyclists can use the National Cycle Network and find secure bike parking at each mall entrance.
Frequently asked questions
How can I request patient transport?
If you need non-emergency transport, the North East Ambulance Service can help. Please arrange this in advance by checking with your GP for the right contact details.
Can I bring someone with me to my appointment?
Yes, you can bring someone with you. However, they may not be able to accompany you into the examination rooms except in special circumstances.
On the day of my appointment, can I take my prescribed medicines as usual?
Unless the CDC Appointments Team or your referring clinician tells you otherwise, you can continue taking all your usual medications.
What happens before your test?
When you arrive at the centre, you’ll be welcomed by the Reception Team and Volunteers. You will need to check-in either at the main reception desk or at one of the self-check-in kiosks. After you check in, you’ll be shown where to wait until it’s time for your test.
What happens after the test?
Once your test is done, you can usually go home right away. You should be able to drive yourself and go back to your normal routine, including eating and drinking as usual.
How long will my appointment take?
The length of the appointment can vary, but most tests don’t take long.
How do I get my results?
The doctor who asked for your test will get the results. If you need a follow-up appointment, the hospital or your GP will contact you. If you haven’t heard anything in three weeks, get in touch with the doctor who referred you.
What do I do if I need to cancel or change my appointment?
If you need to cancel or change your appointment, please call the Appointment Team on 0191 445 2491.
If you cancel or miss your appointment twice, you will be removed from the waiting list, and your doctor will be informed.
Please do not attend if you are unwell.
Who do I contact if I have any additional needs?
If you have any additional support needs that could affect your appointment, please call the Appointment Team at 0191 445 2491.
Feel free to contact us with any questions, and we will be happy to assist you.