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Under the plans, doctors will be able to directly order diagnostic checks for some conditions without needing to go via a consultant. Patients with symptoms of asthma, cardiovascular disease, heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease will be referred to hospital or community diagnostic centres., said:"We know how important it is to diagnose people with conditions like heart failure, COPD and asthma early, so they can get the treatment they need to manage their condition well, and to prevent more serious conditions or illness from developing.
"Our plans to enhance GP direct access will enable thousands more to get a vital diagnosis sooner, and by capitalising on the additional capacity provided by over 100 community diagnostic centres offering a 'one stop shop' for tests in the community, patients can benefit from convenient triaging and testing near their homes, and importantly avoid a hospital admission or trip to A&E.