HEALTH officials are learning from concerns raised by patients, according to research by a primary care trust (PCT).

Hambleton and Richmondshire PCT has analysed how it deals with its Patient Advice and Liaison Service (Pals) and its complaints procedure.

Research has shown that both services have made good progress in learning from issues of concern expressed by patients.

Action taken included encouraging dentists to tell patients the cost of treatment in advance and giving priority to increasing the provision of speech and language services following concern about waiting times.

PCT complaints manager Gill Fox said: "With two years of data to draw on, the PCT has begun to look in-depth at areas causing concern and to reflect on how the lessons learned from complaints inquiries can lead to a better understanding of patient needs and improvements in the service provided.

"Emphasis has been placed on delivering an efficient service from the point at which a patient or carer flags up a concern, or enters the complaints process.

Graham Purdy, of the PCT, said: "By identifying areas of concern and converting the lessons learned into positive actions real improvements would be made in the community of Hambleton and Richmondshire."