A dedicated legal framework for medicines made at the point of care has been introduced in a ‘world first' by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).

The legislation enables hospitals, ambulances and local care settings to carry out the final manufacturing steps for personalised or time-sensitive treatments on-site, slashing waits to days rather than months.

Health and social care secretary Wes Streeting said: ‘This world-first legislation is a game-changer for patients. Cancer treatments tailored in days, not months. Life-saving therapies made at your bedside, not hundreds of miles away.

‘Our Plan for Change promised to build an NHS fit for the future. Today we're delivering on that pledge by bringing cutting-edge care directly to patients when they need it most.

‘We are turning around our NHS with waiting lists at their lowest for two years - this type of therapy means patients can be treated and return home more quickly.'

The framework covers a broad range of innovative products, including cell and gene therapies, tissue-engineered treatments, 3D printed products, blood products and medicinal gases, and follows the publication of detailed guidance earlier this year which includes how to apply for a decentralised manufacture designation.