Health Secretary Alan Johnson has revealed which primary care trusts (PCTs) will be the first to benefit from an initiative designed to increase the number of GP practices in England.
He told delegates at an NHS Alliance conference in Manchester that 38 PCTs have been identified as part of a scheme to deliver 100 new GP practices over the next three years.
He said the new practices will increase capacity in places that need it most and offer a range of innovative services, such as extended opening hours and extended practice boundaries, as well as increasing patient choice.
PCTs based in the North West, North East, West Midlands, London and East of England Strategic Health Authorities are among those which will benefit the most.
Mr Johnson said: “Improving access to primary care is a key priority if we are to deliver more personalised care that meets the needs of individuals and communities, especially those in more disadvantaged or deprived areas.
“Evidence shows there is a direct link between low numbers of GP surgeries and poor health within a community. That is why we are increasing the number of family doctors services in these areas.
“This is not just about building extra primary care capacity but developing high-quality, responsive services with a strong focus on prevention.”
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