FAMILY doctors will close their practices for half a day every month across Derwentside.
The GPs will take the time for training but promised full medical cover for emergencies and urgent cases will be maintained.
The plan has been developed by Derwentside Primary Care Group which brings together GPs, nurses and social services.
Chairman of Derwentside PCG is local GP Dr John Levick. He said: "We can only deliver high quality care if our local doctors, nurses, therapists, managers and receptionists devote regular time to maintaining and enhancing their skills and knowledge.
"Unfortunately the daily life of a practice doesn't allow enough time for this important work to be squeezed in. This is why we have created the monthly protected learning time scheme which will take place one afternoon each month."
All practices in Derwentside will be closed between 1pm and 6pm on the second Thursday of every month, starting on September 13
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article