A MEDICAL record scheme, being trialled in Bolton, is to be extended.

The system, which for the first time allows private patient records to be accessed by dozens of health professionals, rather than just an individual's GP, is to be adopted by nine additional practices.

That takes to 11, the number of doctors' surgeries now taking part in the trial.

Tim Evans, the interim chief executive for Bolton Primary Care Trust, said: "This is a very positive step for healthcare in Bolton.

"I'm pleased many GPs in the area are keen to become early adopters of the summary care record."

The initiative means key medical staff in areas such as accident and emergency will be able to access health records - providing the individuals involved have not opted out. Patients concerned about their records being made generally available have the right to refuse to join the scheme With 11 surgeries now on board, the records of around 66,000 Bolton residents will be shared among NHS staff who access them via a computer network.

Dr Stephen Liversedge, from the Egerton and Dunscar Health Centre, said: "There are obvious benefits for patients and healthcare professionals alike.

"Reports from the two practices in Bolton who have been the first to adopt this have encouraged us, and some of our patients have already expressed an enthusiasm for the scheme."

Patient details are being uploaded onto a database and will be accessible in just a few months. Patients may also be able to access their own records via the internet if proposals materialise.

Janet Bisset, an 80-year-old patient at Kirby, Page and MacMillen, one of the initial two surgeries to introduce the scheme, and a former GP, said: "I think the summary care record is an excellent idea.

"A couple of years ago I had to go to hospital while on holiday. It was in England, but a long way from home. I wasn't in a good way and found it very difficult to communicate with the doctors treating me.

"I'm allergic to penicillin and I would find a great comfort knowing that, should this situation arise again, the NHS staff treating me would have instant access to such important information."

Patients can find out more about what the scheme means for them at a series of sessions to be run at Lever Chambers Centre for Health, Ashburner Street, Bolton, on April 12 between noon and 3pm and 4pm and 7pm, April 17 between 10am and 1pm, April 18 between 10am and 1pm, April 26 between 10am and 1pm and 4pm and 7pm.

More information can be obtained by calling 08456038510 or by visiting www.nhscarerecords.nhs.uk.