Government confirms network of GP-led health centres as it unveils 10-year reform package for NHS

The government has confirmed it will push ahead with plans to build 150 polyclinics, as part of its 10-year NHS reform package being announced by prime minister Gordon Brown today.

Polyclinics, a network of GP-led health centres that will be open 8am to 8pm seven days a week, were recommended in an review by health minister Lord Darzi.

Gordon Brown has described the Darzi's reforms as a "once-in-a-generation'' opportunity to shake up the NHS.

In London polyclinics have already been introduced in some areas, and have been hailed by government as a way to widen access to healthcare.

However, the plans have run into opposition from the British Medical Association, which has warned polyclinics could be used to replace small GP practices that are closer to patients鈥� homes.