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 would be maintained.
The plan has been developed by Derwentside Primary Care Group (PCG) which brings together GPs, nurses and social services.
Chairman of Derwentside PCG, Dr John Levick, said yesterday: "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 does not 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 this month.
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