New appointment system for blood tests at Bedford Hospital's former North Wing means you won't have to queue outside anymore

A new appointment booking system for blood tests at the former North Wing hospital in Kimbolton Road is now available for patients from March 1 onwards.

Patients can now book a blood test at Gilbert Hitchcock House - sometimes on the same day - and there will be early appointments available for those patients who have been asked to fast by their GP.

The new system will reduce the waiting and queuing times when attending for blood tests.

The service is now live, and patients can start booking appointments from March 1 onwards. There are a number of ways to book an appointment including:

*Using the online booking service (available 24/7). Patients will need to register online here*The automated telephone booking service (available 24/7). The telephone number is 01234 607075

*By speaking to the phlebotomy reception team on 01234 792160

*Booking an appointment in person by visiting the department

A limited walk-in service will be maintained. Patients will be given an appointment, if available, at the next appointment time for that day, or offered an appointment for another day.