Earlier this year, health bosses considered closing the Norwich walk-in centre in Rouen Road as part of a shake-up of primary care in the city area.
However, after the plan was met with dramatic public outcry bosses at NHS Norfolk and Waveney made a U-turn and opted to keep the facility open.
But they warned that in doing so, they may instead opt to reduce the opening hours of the neighbouring Norwich Practices Health Centre, which shares Rouen House with the walk-in centre.
They said the reduction would have freed up 31.5 hours a week to enhance services offered by the walk-in centre.
Now, following a public consultation, bosses have confirmed the move – albeit with slightly longer hours than originally planned.
When the future of the walk-in centre was confirmed, it was touted that the medical practice would reduce its opening hours to 8am until 6.30pm, Monday to Friday.
Currently, it opens 8am until 8pm, seven days a week – longer than most GP surgeries in the county.
However, the new plans will see two days per week open half an hour longer and a three-hour window on Saturdays – which is yet to be finalised.
A spokesman for NHS Norfolk and Waveney said: “These suggested hours respond directly to patient feedback, recognising the clear need for greater access to appointments before and after working hours – as well as at the weekend.
“In addition to general practice services available at Rouen Road, all registered patients also have access to these services through the additional enhanced access arrangements available at sites across Norwich from 6.30-8pm and all day on Saturdays.”
The changes will come into effect from Monday, September 18.
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