LaingBuisson’s comprehensive study of the UK’s Diagnostics market returns with its third edition, offering a detailed analysis of imaging and pathology services. These distinct, but essential, disciplines form the backbone of the diagnostics market now valued at £10.7 billion, providing crucial insights into patient care and treatment pathways.

Providing an in-depth examination of the market landscape, this resource highlights the evolving role of the private sector and the interplay between NHS and independent providers, with the overall ‘wholesale’ hospital market for imaging and pathology, now valued at £9.3 billion, and private diagnostic services companies accounting for 16.7% (£1.6 billion) of the market. Meanwhile, the ‘retail’ market – comprising tests separately charged to PMI, private, international, and B2C patients – is valued at just over £1.4 billion.

With increasing demand, NHS Trusts continue to supplement their imaging capacity with mobile solutions, and some have partially outsourced MRI scanning. Despite this, full outsourcing of imaging departments remains absent, in contrast to pathology services, where 8% of Trusts in England have transitioned to external providers.

As the sector is forced to navigate increased demand and workforce constraints, questions remain about the future of diagnostic delivery, such as:

• Will the NHS continue to outsource, as seen in other markets?
• How will investment in new technologies and innovation shape the competitive landscape?
• Will consumer demand continue on its current trajectory?

With the growing reliance on diagnostics to inform patient care, the need for these answers remains vital. 

• Hospital & Clinic C-Suite Professionals
• Specialist Diagnostics Providers
• Suppliers of Imaging and Pathology Equipment
• Private Medical Insurance Groups
• Clinical Commissioning Groups
• NHS Foundation Trusts
• Professional and Trade Associations
• Investors
• Banks
• Private Equity
• Central and Local Government
• Think Tanks
• Lawyers
• Management Consultants