Will walk-in GP clinics deliver one million extra appointments?
BBC World
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Scottish government has launched its first of 16 new walk-in GP clinics, aiming to provide same-day access to medical care without appointments. These clinics, which will operate daily from noon to 8 p.m., are designed to address non-emergency issues like rashes, coughs, and infections. However, their effectiveness in delivering the ambitious target of one million extra appointments remains uncertain.
The initiative is part of a broader effort to tackle growing patient frustration with long GP appointment wait times. A recent survey revealed that only 76% of people in Scotland found it easy to contact their GP, down from 87% five years ago. With an increasing number of patients and fewer GP practices, the pressure on general practice is intensifying. The clinics aim to alleviate this strain by offering alternative access to care.
Despite their potential benefits, walk-in clinics have faced criticism in England for their impact on GP services and value for money. Scotland’s approach differs, focusing on convenience and patient satisfaction. However, the pilot phase of the first clinic has limited accessibility, serving only 7% of registered patients in its catchment area and excluding vulnerable groups like children under five.
The government’s plan to monitor attendance through bespoke reporting will help assess whether these clinics can meet their target. If successful, they could ease pressure on overstretched GP practices while improving access to care for patients. This initiative not only addresses Scotland’s healthcare challenges but also holds lessons for other countries grappling with similar issues in their healthcare systems.
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/25/2026