PAUL STRICKLAND SCANNER CENTRE MARKS 40 YEARS’ SERVICE TO HILLINGDON

Paul Strickland Scanner Centre is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, a milestone that underscores its vital contribution to the Hillingdon community and its pioneering role in medical imaging.

Since 1985, the centre has been at the forefront of diagnostic technology, transforming patient care and setting new standards in the fight against cancer and other serious illnesses. Earlier this year, the centre’s contribution to the community was recognised by Hillingdon Chamber of Commerce when it received a Highly Commended award in the 2025 Business Awards.

The centre’s origins lie in the vision of Dr. Paul Strickland OBE, a consultant radiotherapist at Mount Vernon Hospital. In the early 1980s, Dr. Strickland recognised the revolutionary potential of CT and MRI scanning. Undeterred by the economic climate, he launched a fundraising campaign, galvanising support and raising over £1.7 million – a remarkable achievement that surpassed the initial target. This enabled the purchase of both CT and MRI scanners, as well as the construction of the facility that would become Paul Strickland Scanner Centre.

Paul Strickland Scanner Centre opened its doors in 1985, becoming the UK’s first diagnostic imaging unit to serve both NHS and private patients. This groundbreaking initiative brought cutting-edge technology to the heart of the community, enabling earlier and more accurate diagnoses, and paving the way for more effective treatments.

Over the past four decades, Paul Strickland Scanner Centre has remained committed to innovation, continually upgrading its equipment and expanding its services. Advances in technology have dramatically improved image quality and scan speeds, leading to more accurate diagnoses and increased patient throughput. The centre's specialisation in whole-body MRI scanning, particularly important for patients with metastatic cancers, is a testament to its dedication to providing the best possible care.

Paul Strickland Scanner Centre's continued operation and its ability to invest in the latest technology is heavily reliant on the generosity of its supporters. Donations play a vital role in ensuring that Paul Strickland Scanner Centre can continue to provide a vital service to the community for generations to come. As the centre marks its 40th anniversary, it is a moment to celebrate its remarkable achievements and to acknowledge the vital role it plays in the lives of so many.