A new community gynaecology service is set to launch in the new year.
The programme will cover Lancashire and South Cumbria, aiming to shorten waiting times and reduce unnecessary hospital referrals.
NHS Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB) has begun the procurement process for a three-year contract, with the option to extend for a further two years.
The service is expected to start on January 1, 2027.
Jayne Mellor, director of acute commissioning, diagnostics and pathology at the ICB, said: "This new community service will benefit patients across the whole of our region by improving access and providing the right gynaecological care in a setting that is more convenient to them."
The Tier 2 community service will offer routine, non-consultant-led gynaecology care in community settings.
It is designed to 'bridge the gap' between primary and secondary care, helping to address rising demand and long waiting lists for hospital gynaecology services.
The scheme will include triage, advice and guidance, face-to-face and remote appointments, and one-stop care where possible.
Patients with suspected cancer, complex pathology, or certain excluded conditions will be fast-tracked or referred into the most appropriate secondary care pathway.
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Once procurement is complete, the service will accept GP referrals for people aged 16 and over whose condition can be safely managed outside hospital.
Patients must be registered with a GP in Lancashire.
The service model was developed using patient engagement insights and aims to improve access, experience, and outcomes for patients across the region.
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