The new tranche of GPs could deliver more than four million additional appointments per year, the DHSC adds.

Health and social care secretary, Wes Streeting, said: ‘We said we'd deliver 1,000 more GPs this year – and we've busted that target, bringing 2,000 more GPs on board.

'With proper investment and reform we are turning the tide on our NHS, and patients are beginning to feel the benefit. We still have a long road ahead, and this government is determined to keep our foot on the gas.'

The government set out its 10-Year Health Plan in June, which outlines the reforms it is introducing to get the NHS back on its feet. The plan will train thousands more GPs and create a new Neighbourhood Health Service, so patients can be treated and cared for closer to their homes.