The unit will allow an additional 9,000 patients to be seen annually, significantly reducing waiting times and improving access to care. 

Jawad, who was diagnosed with Crohn's Disease at the Leicester General Hospital in 2009, said: ‘This unit is a game-changer for patients. As someone who has lived with Crohn's for years, I understand how vital it is to get answers quickly. It's fantastic to see such a modern facility that will help people get the care they need more efficiently. I'm proud to support something that will make a real difference.'

UHL has also introduced a new paperless digital system that will transform the way endoscopy services operate. The new system streamlines patient journeys, from referral and booking through to procedure and follow-up. This will consolidate clinical information already held digitally, improving continuity of care and allowing clinicians to document care in real time using digital devices.  

Simon Barton, deputy chief executive at University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, said: ‘We know how important an earlier diagnosis is for conditions such as Crohn's Disease and cancer, which endoscopy procedures help to detect. We already provide a wide range of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures to more than 30,000 patients every year and this new facility will give us even more capacity to help patients across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland to be seen sooner in a purpose-built environment.'

The unit was delivered by Henry Brothers Construction.