Nuffield Health unveils £1m investment in new AI-empowered CT suites, providing much-needed diagnostic capacity across Derby and Edinburgh

Nuffield Health, the UK’s largest not-for-profit independent hospital provider, has unveiled a major investment in AI-enabled CT systems at its Derby and Edinburgh hospitals with the Revolution Ascend CT system from GE HealthCare.

Along with the full refurbishment of the diagnostic suite, this represents a major £1m investment in patient care. It will contribute to each hospital’s diagnostic capacity, which collectively offer more than 100,000 diagnostics imaging tests a year, including for conditions such as cancers, cardiovascular disease, musculoskeletal issues, and neurological conditions.

Both Derby and Edinburgh hospitals offer a comprehensive range of services to both NHS and private patients.

The latest NHS England Diagnostic Waiting Times and Activity Report shows more than 1.7 million patients waiting for a key diagnostic test at the end of May 2025, while data from Public Health Scotland shows diagnostic waiting lists are 60% higher than before the pandemic. This investment in innovative technology will help to deliver faster, more accurate diagnoses – opening up much-needed capacity for patients.

The new systems are equipped with innovative AI-empowered technology, offering faster diagnostics with a more comfortable patient experience. With an integrated 3D camera which positions each patient almost twice as quickly as previous models, according to GE HealthCare pilot data comparing legacy products with the Revolution Ascend CT system. Radiographers are freed up to dedicate more time to caring for patients, creating a calmer and more supportive experience.

Combined with a wider bore that offers more physical space and reduces feelings of claustrophobia, the entire setup is engineered to make patients feel more at ease. In addition, in-built deep-learning image reconstruction provides clearer imaging – allowing patients to receive critical answers sooner, while exposing them to up to 82% less radiation.

Arthur Stephen, Nuffield Health’s Chief Medical Officer and orthopaedic surgeon at Derby Hospital, who unveiled the new system, said:

“With the NHS under sustained pressure and waiting lists at record levels, we have the capacity and the desire to do more. This investment in our diagnostic services will further enable us to work alongside our colleagues in the NHS to deal with rising waiting lists.

What’s particularly pleasing about the new CT system we’re unveiling today; is how much faster and more comfortable it is for patients, and more importantly the improved image quality which is excellent. By integrating the AI features, our radiographers will be freed up from the more manual tasks, enabling them to focus on caring for our patients. We pride ourselves on delivering not only excellent quality and standards in care, but also the highest standards in experience – and this innovative technology will further enhance our service, and the experience patients receive while in our care.”

The investment is part of a broader collaboration with GE HealthCare, which will see Nuffield Health invest £200 million in the latest AI-enabled diagnostic imaging technology across its UK hospital network. Underpinning the partnership is a shared commitment to sustainable healthcare, with each CT system coming with sustainability passports detailing their limited use of rare materials, recyclability, and reduced energy consumption. The collaboration will also drive investment in staff education and elevate the patient experience across Nuffield Health’s hospitals.