Call for health views

Health bosses are to launch a major public consultation to determine the future of health services in the Cannock Chase district.

South Staffordshire Primary Care Trust will invite local residents and patients to express their views and get involved in developing the local health services until 2012.

Top officers from the trust will be at The Roman Way Hotel on the A5 on Wednesday September 5 at 12.15pm.

Members of the public will hear about the key health priorities that the PCT have planned and have the opportunity to get involved in the process of developing and delivering the health services.

South Staffordshire PCT are responsible for identifying the health needs of the local community, working with patients and the general public to ensure that local people have access to a full range of health services.

Stuart Poynor, chief executive of South Staffordshire PCT said: "The views and comments of patients and local residents are intrinsic to South Staffordshire PCT. We want to continually listen, understand and respond to people particularly when we are planning our services."

He added: "We hope that local people can spare a couple of hours to come along to this informal event, share a light buffet and share their rich mix of knowledge and information that I know exists in our local community.

"We want to learn about the lifestyles of local patients and residents, which impact on their health. This information can then be used to help us understand better how to shape services ensuring that they respond to individuals and their lifestyles."

The PCT is currently developing its Strategic Plan which will include providing care closer to home, increasing life expectancy, and improving care for chronic conditions and end of life for care.

Anyone hoping to attend the event should contact with Vanessa Day on 01283 507144.

The Strategic Plan is available electronically by visiting www.southstaffordshirepct.nhs.uk