Health minister John Denham has launched a review of out-of-hours GP services examining the possible future role of the NHS Direct helpline as a first port of call for access to primary care.

An out-of-hours review team, expected to report to ministers by late summer, will look at the potential for developing integrated services which could make NHS Direct the access point for GP co-operatives and deputising services.

The team will be led by Dr David Carson, head of primary care strategy and performance at East London and the City health authority, and supported by Dr Ian Trimble, chair of Nottingham primary care group.

The review will look at examples of schemes, such as one in west London, linking NHS Direct and GPs, where nurses refer NHS Direct callers to outof-hours GP services if necessary.

Launching the scheme at a conference of the National Association of GP Co-operatives, Mr Denham said: 'Much is very good about out-of-hours services across the country. '

But he added: 'There is clear evidence that, on occasion, the quality of the service falls below acceptable standards. '