HEALTH bosses in Darlington have hailed the introduction of a new out-of-hours medical care system as a major success.
The scheme, which has been pioneered in the town and neighbouring Tees Valley, is said to have worked smoothly since its introduction on April 1.
Letters were sent to patients explaining the new system which asks them to call a helpline number if they are taken ill after 6pm, before 8am, or at the weekends.
Darlington's director of Public Health Dr Nonnie Crawford said: "We have emailed all the GPs and the comments we have received back have been universally good.
"Patients seem to be happy and there have been no major problems with the helpline number."
The introduction of the service follows a new GP contract negotiated by doctors with the Government which allows them to opt out of providing out of hours services. GPs at all 11 surgeries within Darlington trust area have signed up to the new system.
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