Greater choice over medical tests to be introduced

Patients are to be given greater choice and information regarding how and where they receive common medical checks such as blood tests and heart scans.

From April 2013, people will be able to pick a location closer to their home or near where they work, rather than having to go to the nearest available option.

These decisions will be made in partnership with doctors, who will be able to provide patients with more detailed information on waiting times to help guide their choices.

It coincides with the launch of a new consultation on wider plans to make NHS care more flexible and patient-centric.

Health secretary Andrew Lansley said: "No two people are the same and that's why our plans will offer patients more personalised care, ensuring that 'no decision about me is made without me'."

Earlier this month, the Department of Health also revealed that more NHS and social care data is to be made publicly available, in order to inform patient choices further.