Patients in Brighton and Hove will soon be able to see a family doctor in the evening, at the weekend and on bank holidays.
The new extended hours service will see participating surgeries offer appointments with GPs (general practitioners) and nurses from 8am to 8pm, seven days a week.
Patients will be able to access the new service by calling their own practice to book an appointment.
This year, for the first time, urgent appointments are available at local GP (general practice) surgeries from 8am to 8pm from Friday 22 December to Sunday 7 January, excluding Christmas Day.
Brighton and Hove Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) said: “Increasing access to GP services is one of the highest priorities for the NHS in Brighton and Hove.
“Appointments at evenings and weekends will not only improve access to GP services but will also help manage pressures on urgent and emergency care services especially over the busy winter period.”
Brighton GP David Supple, who chairs the CCG in Brighton and Hove, said: “Our aim is to make GP services more accessible, especially for parents, carers and people of working age.
“We know it’s not always easy to find time to squeeze in an appointment with your GP to fit in with a busy work and family life.”
Dr Supple added: “Offering appointments at extended hours can make it easier for local people to see a GP at a time that suits them.
“This year GP appointments are also being made available over the Christmas holidays.”
