Protected Learning Time in General Practice

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Protected Learning Time?

NHS Lanarkshire is committed to ensuring that we provide the best possible care to our patients at all times. In order to support and sustain valuable general practices, Protected Learning Time (PLT) was introduced in June 2024 across all participating GP practices in each of our 10 localities.

PLT is an opportunity for the GP practice team including clinical, management and administrative staff and members of the wider (NHS Board / Health and Social Care Partnership) team to address learning and professional development needs.

Only those GP practices mentioned under each date will be participating in PLT. All other GP practices will remain open and patients should contact their practice in the normal way.

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Can I still speak to a GP during the PLT sessions?

Yes. If you require acute or urgent care during the time your practice is closed, NHS Lanarkshire has a team of receptionists and GPs available to backfill clinical activity for your GP Practice.

When you call your GP practice your call will either be diverted to the PLT team directly, or the GP practice telephone system answerphone message will ask you to select a number which will transfer you to our team to help while your GP practice is closed.

If your call to the GP practice is routine – for example, requiring test/diagnostic results or requesting a repeat prescription, you will be asked to call back the following day.

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What to expect when I speak to a member of the PLT Team?

You will firstly speak to a dedicated call handler who will ask you some key questions to understand the reason for your call, to determine whether you require acute or urgent care.

If deemed appropriate, you will be transferred by the call handlers to a GP who will initially carry out a telephone consultation with you to establish whether your care can be managed by this route and agree the most appropriate treatment and care required.

GPs can also see you face-to-face, if required, within a primary care centre that is as close to your home as possible and arrange an appointment that day for you.

There is also the option (if the GP deems it to be clinically required) of a home visit by a GP and this can be arranged following your clinical assessment.

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How often will PLT take place?

Each GP practice across NHS Lanarkshire will be closing for PLT three times a year on a rolling programme, on a Wednesday afternoon between 2pm and 6pm.

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How will I know when my GP practice is closing for PLT sessions to take place?

NHS Lanarkshire will ensure that there is advanced notice given to your GP practice ahead of their scheduled PLT sessions to facilitate planning and timely communication to the practice team and patients.

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When will my GP practice be closed?

GP practice closure dates for May 2025.

Wednesday 14 May

Calderside Medical Practice, Blantyre Health Centre, Victoria Street, Blantyre G72 0BS
Victoria Medical Practice, Blantyre Health Centre, Victoria Street, Blantyre G72 0BS
Bothwell Medical Centre, 3 Uddingston Road, Bothwell G71 8ET
Auchinraith Medical Practice, Blantyre Health Centre, Victoria Street, Blantyre G72 0BS
Gallowhill Medical Centre, 4/6 Gallowhill, Larkhall ML9 1EX
Morgan Glen Surgery, Morgan Glen Place, Larkhall ML9 1RJ
The Avon Medical Practice, 1 Academy Street, Larkhall ML9 2BJ
Lincluden Medical Centre, 82 Bellshill Road, Uddingston G71 7NE

Wednesday 21 May

The Motherwell Medical Practice, Motherwell Health Centre, 138-144 Windmillhill Street, Motherwell ML1 1TB
Orchard Medical Centre, 41 Ladywell Road, Motherwell ML1 3JX
Clyde Practice, Motherwell Health Centre, 138-144 Windmillhill Street, Motherwell ML1 1TB
Knowetop Medical Practice, Motherwell Health Centre, 138-144 Windmillhill Street, Motherwell ML1 1TB

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