Cash boost for new GP surgeries

Two new GP surgeries and a new GP-led health centre are set to open in Leicester as part of a £15m investment plan, it has been announced.

The city's primary care trust has been given the funding as it has too few GPs - 2,500 patients per doctor compared with a national average of 1,700.

Health bosses said more than 15,000 patients will benefit from longer opening hours and better access.

The practices will open next year with a further surgery planned for 2010.

For the first time patients will be able to see a doctor or nurse at a new walk-in centre without needing to be registered at any practice.

NHS Leicester City chief executive Tim Rideout said: "This is a proud day for NHS Leicester City and a great day for local patients.

"It's a sign of the importance that we attach to improving health and picking up signs of poor health at an early stage that we are committing £15 million to these great new primary care facilities."