Majority 'would not use' clinic

Supporters say the clinics would offer patients more choice

Plans for a so-called GP "super surgery" could go ahead in Worcester despite survey results suggesting most people in the county do not want it.

In a poll run by Worcestershire health chiefs, 55% of the 357 people they interviewed said they would not use the proposed GP-led health centre.

Some GPs have criticised national plans for the clinics, saying it could mean the end of local doctor care.

However, supporters have said they will give patients more choice.

The surgery would have a range of services, including GPs and would be open seven days a week from 0800 until 2000.

Substantial number

Patients would also not have to register to be seen.

The government has said it expects each of England's Primary Care Trusts (PCTs) to bring in such a health centre by 1 April next year.

The survey was carried out by Worcestershire PCT via leaflets sent out to people's home along with online questions.

The survey showed only 35% of those who replied said they would use it while a further 10% did not know if they would, documents obtained by BBC Hereford and Worcester under the Freedom of Information Act show.

Richard Harling, director of public health at the Worcestershire PCT, said that even if only a third of the local number of people used the clinic it would still mean a substantial number of patients.

He added that he hoped existing GP services would also receive extra funding to allow them to extend their opening hours.