The first of new network of walk-in services has opened in Scotland.

Patients will have access to GP-led care on the same day without an appointment.

It is hoped the new services will make it easier for people to get urgent care for medical issues while easing pressure on GP practices and hospitals.

£36 million is being invested into a pilot programme which will see a further 14 services established across Scotland.

First minister John Swinney is to open Scotland's first GP walk-in clinic at Wester Hailes Healthy Living Centre.

The clinic will be open every day from noon until 8pm.

He said: “I know how important access to urgent medical care is for people, and how important it is for people to get the right care, in the right place at the right time.

“Our network of walk-in GP-led services will ensure people get the care they need at a time that works for them – and opening this first clinic is a major milestone as we continue to deliver trusted leadership for our health service.

“Open seven days per week from 12pm-8pm, these walk-in clinics will deliver over one million additional GP and nurse appointments, making it easier than ever for people to access urgent care when they need it most.

“With GP numbers up, long waits down, record numbers of hip and knee operations and 15 new walk-in GP clinics opening in Scotland, it is clear we are making progress in our NHS – and I am determined that we will continue to drive forward improvements."

Tracey McKigen, director of primary care for NHS Lothian, said:“We are proud to be launching this pilot service in collaboration with the Edinburgh Health and Social Care Partnership. It will add to the range of health services in Wester Hailes and make it easier for local patients registered with eight eligible GP practices in southwest Edinburgh to get same day care for new, urgent conditions.”

Details of the 14 other walk-in centres will be announced in due course.