Plans for seven-day-a-week access to GPs unveiled

The government has unveiled plans that will make it easier for UK patients to see their GPs by offering extended opening hours.

Under the new proposals, a first wave of GP groups will introduce new hours in 2014/15, providing access to consultations from 08:00 to 20:00 seven days a week, as well as flexible access options including email, Skype and phone appointments.

Other changes include electronic prescriptions, online booking of appointments, greater choice of practices and an overall joining-up of urgent care and out-of-hours care.

Innovative practices will be able to apply to a new 50 million pounds Challenge Fund to set up a pioneer programme, with a wider rollout of the new system to follow on from successful pilots.

Prime minister David Cameron said these changes have been introduced because currently "millions of people find it hard to get an appointment to see their GP at a time that fits in with their work and family life".

The British Medical Association welcomed the overall concept, but noted that increased staff levels and resources will need to be made available for it to work.