Builth Wells' hospital is one of four facing cutbacks

Action groups have been formed to fight the plans by Powys Local Health Board, which is facing a �3.5m deficit.

The board has said its buildings are outdated and patients deserve better.

But people campaigning for Llanidloes, Knighton, Bronllys and Builth Wells hospitals have held a number of demonstrations.

The six GPs, who all work at the hospitals under threat, will meet Dr Gibbons at the Welsh assembly on Monday.

Latest demonstration

Cathy Ysart, secretary of campaign group Builth Against Closing Hospitals, said: "The minister is actually a GP and it is hoped this will give him extra insight into the concerns local healthcare professionals have regarding Powys LHB's current plans to close in patient beds.

Mrs Ysart said the assembly government's 10-year health care plan, Designed for Life, would also be discussed during the meeting.

Last week, campaigners staged their latest demonstration against the plans.

Protesters released 100 heart-shaped balloons and presented a 7,000-name petition at the board's headquarters at Bronllys, near Brecon.

Campaigners also presented Valentine cards to medical staff working at the community hospital nearby in appreciation of their work.

At Llanidloes, the board plans to cut 18 beds, close an X-ray unit, a birthing centre and outpatient services.

Bronllys, near Brecon, and Knighton could lose GP beds and maternity services, while 12 GP beds, outpatient and X-ray services could be cut at Builth Wells.