PATIENTS in north and west Wiltshire are being asked to have their say in what they think of health services.

West Wiltshire and Kennet and North Wiltshire Primary Care Trusts have launched a survey to find out what their patients think about the care they receive.

The aim is to highlight where the trusts already perform well and to identify where there is room for improvement. The PCTs say it will use this feedback to improve patients' experiences.

The questionnaires will be sent to 850 randomly selected patients in each Trust area who are registered with general practices.

They will be asked about their experiences including making an appointment, the quality of care, communication with health professionals, information, medicines, involvement in their care, referrals and dental care.

Director of primary care for the trusts, Debra Elliott, said: "We hope our patients will take the time to help us with this survey.

"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 services we provide in the future."

This nationally co-ordinated survey allows organisations to compare results and will identify the trusts where patients give the most positive responses.

The results will be available in the summer and will be published on www.healthcarecommission.org.uk/NationalFindings/fs/en.