HEALTH chiefs want to hear from patients in Chorley so they can improve on underperforming services.

They say the feedback they get will be vital to take local health needs into the future.

Chorley and South Ribble Primary Care Trust is launching the warts and all survey next month.

Judith Faux, chief executive, urged people to take part, saying: "Their views are vital in helping us to find out how we are doing and how we can improve.

"This is an excellent way for patients to help shape the service we provide in the future."

Some 850 people registered with GPs will receive a questionnaire. They will be asked about various aspects of their experiences, including

Making an appointment.

Quality of care.

Communication with health professionals.

Information.

Medicines.

Involvement in their care.

Referrals.

Dental care.

The results will be used to help the trust highlight the good and the bad. Part of a national initiative, the questionnaires should be delivered in the week beginning February 16, says the PCT. If anyone has any queries they should ring freephone 0800 783 2896.

Anyone not receiving a questionnaire but wanting to put their views forward should ring the Patient Advice and Liaison Service on the trust freephone on 0800 032 24 24, textphone 01772 227005, or email pals@chorley-pct.nhs.uk

The results will be available this summer.