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The morning rush in a doctor\\u2019s surgery usually begins around 8am, before the doors even open, as patients ring up to try and get a precious appointment. But why is it so hard to get to see a GP, and why is primary care under such pressure? \\nFile on 4 has spent a week in a GP\\u2019s surgery speaking to doctors, staff, and patients to try and understand the challenges facing the front line of health care. \\nThe programme has been given access to what goes on behind the scenes at a doctor\\u2019s surgery in Gateshead, on Tyneside, in one of the most deprived parts of England. It hears why a growing population, more elderly people, and fewer fully qualified doctors dealing with more complex health problems are all factors pushing some GP practices to the brink, and some to consider leaving the profession altogether.

Reporter: Paul Kenyon\\nProducers: Fergus Hewison and Kat Collins\\nTechincal Producer: Nicky Edwards\\nEditor: Carl Johnston