Many GPs have problems with violent patients

The �50,000 unit will be used to treat patients who have been banned from GP practices in north Nottinghamshire.

The caravan-sized unit is still being built but NHS bosses are hoping it will be up and running by mid-December.

They say the escape hatch and security guard will give GPs the protection they need to deal with violent patients.

Extra security

The unit will be driven to a public car park near to where the patient lives and probably within easy reach of a police station.

The GP will be able to call on the security guard at the press of a button if they need help.

It is quite unique Tony McIntyre, Newark and Sherwood PCT

In the worst case scenario, they will be able to escape using a specially-designed hatch.

"It is quite unique," said Tony McIntyre, assistant director at Newark and Sherwood Primary Care Trust.

"I don't think any health area in the country has tried to tackle the problem in this way."

The mobile surgery will be shared by four primary care trusts across north Nottinghamshire.

It will also double as an emergency primary care unit, when needed.

"It would be particularly useful after a major accident or disaster, " Mr McIntyre told BBC News Online.

"It is not going to be treating a lot of patients," Mr McIntyre said.

"We know of 11 reported cases of violence or abuse by patients and 12 in Nottingham City.

"But it could also come in very useful if we have a bad road accident or something."

The Department of Health is paying the �50,000 cost of running the mobile surgery.

Ministers have urged local NHS bosses to clamp down on violent patients.

Trusts have been encouraged to treat patients who have been struck off GP lists for violent, abusive or threatening behaviour in special clinics.

Some of the areas of the country, like north Nottinghamshire, have struggled to provide this service.