Blood testing to move from Harrogate to Knaresborough due to Sainsbury’s pharmacy closure

A blood testing service in Harrogate is set to move to Knaresborough after the closure of a supermarket pharmacy.

The relocation comes as Lloyds Pharmacy in Sainsbury’s on Wetherby Road is set to close.

The service, which is run by Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust, is operated from the supermarket pharmacy to provide flexibility for patients who require a blood test.

This is in addition to appointments at Harrogate District Hospital.

The service will relocate to Chain Lane Community Hub in Knaresborough on Tuesday, May 2, and will be open Monday to Friday from 7.30am until 11am.

Emma Jocelyn, phlebotomy manager at HDFT said: 

“We know that being able to have a blood test at a community location is extremely popular.

“We were keen to continue this service in the future and we are delighted to have found the ideal venue at the Chain Lane Community Hub which offers ample free parking, is well served by public transport, is fully accessible and has convenient shopping nearby.”

Ms Jocelyn added:

“The Chain Lane Community Hub location will be more convenient for some people, and we know that for others, the chance of being seen more quickly than at our hospital due to the shorter queues will appeal.

“We look forward to welcoming those people who need our help to our fantastic new location.”

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People who would have previously gone to Sainsbury’s for blood tests are being encouraged to visit the Chain Lane Community Hub amid upcoming building work at the hospital, which will reduce the waiting area at the hospital blood test service.

Visitors will not need to book an appointment, however they will need to bring with them an ICE request form from their GP or consultant for the test to be undertaken.

Sue Vasey, from the Chain Lane Community Hub, said: 

“We are absolutely delighted to be welcoming the phlebotomy team to the community centre.

“This will be great for the people of Knaresborough and surrounding areas and we look forward to supporting this important new service to the town.”

Lloyds Pharmacy announced in January it was to close 237 of its outlets in Sainsbury’s supermarkets nationally.

The group said it made the decision due to “changing market conditions”.