COMMUTERS and travellers using one of the region's busiest railway stations will soon be able see a doctor thanks to a new scheme.
Plans for NHS walk-in centres near major railway stations were announced by the Government yesterday.
The initiative, which is intended to give commuters and other travellers easier access to a GP, will include a walk-in centre near Newcastle Central Station.
The Department of Health said it was inviting bids to run walk-in centres for the first time, as part of its expansion of primary care provision.
Seven centres staffed by doctors and nurses are planned, with four sites in London and others in Manchester and Leeds.
About £25m will be invested in the centres in the first three years.
They will also offer physiotherapy, treatment for minor injuries, prescriptions and pharmacy services.
The centres, due to open next spring, will be open from 7am to 7pm and patients can see a doctor or nurse without having to book an appointment.
It is estimated that more than 30,000 patients a year will benefit from treatment at the seven centres, with more sites possible in other cities if the clinics are a success.
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