Half of GPs now open extended hours

Over half of GP practices are now offering extended opening hours.

According to the latest Department of Health data, 51.4% of GP practices offered extended opening hours in September compared with 44.9% in August. However, patients in some areas are still being denied the service - six of the 150+ commisioner areas still have no GP practices offering extended opening hours.

• Sept 2008: 45% of GPs now open extended hours