The new Dorset Pathology Hub was officially opened on the site of Royal Bournemouth Hospital last week.

Part of the One Dorset Pathology network – a partnership between Dorset County Hospital and University Hospitals Dorset – the £24 million facility is designed for rapid routine and advanced specialist testing, including digital pathology, and boasts AI capabilities.

It’s benefitted from a £2.7 million investment from Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) in the histopathology diagnostic department, a specialist branch of pathology essential to the diagnosis of cancer and many other diseases.

The investment came via Dorset LEP’s Local Growth Fund as a means to support Covid-19 recovery and accelerate healthcare resilience in the county.

Cecila Bufton, chair of the LEP board, said: “It’s a proud moment for Dorset LEP to witness the impact our investment is having on health and communities right across Dorset.

“The state-of-the-art laboratory supports hospitals across the region, offering a fast, accurate, routine and specialist testing service.

“Having started my career in laboratory diagnostics, I’m fully aware how such a service can make a significant difference to health outcomes for people in Dorset.”

Dr Kate Adie CBE, broadcaster and chancellor of Bournemouth University, unveiled a commemorative plaque to mark the occasion.

And Steve Hiorns, the patient whose blood was first to be analysed at the hub, cut the ribbon to officially open the facility.

Mark Mould, chief operating officer at University Hospitals Dorset and senior responsible officer for the project, added: “This is a special day as we celebrate a new era for our local NHS and the patients we serve.

“Delivering a project of this scale is a true team effort, and we’re grateful for the support of our partners, many of whom were able to join us at the event.

“This project has not just been about buildings, but building futures – the hub improves diagnostics for patients, helping to meet the growing demand for specialist treatment, as well as providing development opportunities for staff.”

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