Hospitals in Norfolk, including the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in King's Lynn, are participating in a scheme to train graduates in a new position created to support doctors.

Physician Associates are trained to perform various duties, which include taking medical histories, performing examinations and diagnosing illnesses in patients.

Applications are now being accepted for the scheme where graduates study for a Physician Associate's master's qualification at the University of East Anglia (UEA).

The Queen Elizabeth Hospital in King's Lynn is among those participating in the scheme and has 10 places on offer. Once fully trained, they are guaranteed a paid position afterwards.

Beverley Watson, Medical Director at the hospital, said: 'Physician Associates will be an invaluable part of the future structure of UK Healthcare. Completing the course at our Trust will mean substantial contact time with patients working under the supervision of doctors.'

Other hospital's participating in the scheme in Norfolk are the James Paget Hospital, as well as the Norfolk and Norwich and West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust. Ipswich Hospital is also taking part.

The two-year course at the UEA has 60 places available.

To apply, visit the UEA website. Application deadline is September 14.