GP service is launched

THE Lothians' newest hospital will launch its first service today when an out-of-hours GP service begins.

The new Midlothian Community Hospital in Dalkeith has been completed ahead of schedule and will host a range of services, including the GP facility previously based at Bonnyrigg Health Centre.

The service aims to provide medical care when doctors are closed during evenings and weekends.

Marion Storrie, clinical direction of the Lothian Unscheduled Care Service, said: "The team has been looking forward to moving into the hospital as it will provide first-class facilities for patients and staff."

The 88 bed hospital is expected to be fully operational by the middle of this month, with more services beginning next week.