SOUTH Wiltshire's GP and dental practices have been given a vote of confidence by patients.

The first-ever patient survey on primary care services across the country shows that most patients served by the south Wiltshire primary care trust have confidence and trust in their GPs, practice nurses, health visitors, district nurses and dentists.

Results of the survey by the independent health watchdog the Commission for Health Improvement also show that most patients feel their concerns are listened to by the local health professionals treating them.

Areas identified for improvement include reducing waiting times to see a primary care professional, the need for more information about the possible side-effects of medicines and the need for prompt results for any tests carried out.

John Nicholas, chief executive of south Wiltshire PCT, said: "Patient surveys enable us to work with service users to develop and improve service in south Wiltshire.

"The results of the survey are very much in line with our recent performance rating, where the PCT was awarded two out of a possible three stars.

"We are taking forward improvements in a number of areas and have already improved the waiting times for patients."

Retired civil servant Lis Woods, of Lower Bemerton, has been appointed a non-executive director of the south Wiltshire PCT for a four-year term, from July 2003 to June 2007 by the NHS appointments committee.

She is a former board member of customs and excise and ex-head of finance at the department of social security.

She also advised health ministers for 15 years on health policies and is currently a volunteer with Salisbury Citizen's Advice Bureau.