Hertsmere Primary Care Trust (PCT) has set up a pilot project which could be established nationally as part of plans to abolish Community Health Councils (CHCs).

Patient Forums partnerships with GPs, patients and the voluntary sector form part of the Government's National Health Service Forum and Health Care Professions Bill. CHCs will be abolished if it becomes law.

Five GP practices in Borehamwood, Bushey and Potters Bar have volunteered to work with patients interested in developing the forum. The pilot is being run by the PCT and South West Hertsmere CHC.

Dr Caroline Dain, from Parkfield Medical Centre in The Walk, Potters Bar, said: "I believe that there is now a real chance for patients in Hertsmere to be involved in making the right decisions about the way the NHS is run and would encourage people to find out more."

For an information pack and details about how you can get involved call Ian Brittain on 01707 622940.

December 18, 2001 17:54