HEALTH officials in Darlington have been given a clear message about where they need to improve, after running a patient survey.

Almost 400 people took part in the annual National Health Service survey, which aims to involve the public in shaping future services.

Stephen Brewster, of the Picker Institute which organised the survey, said it was crucial to securing a high-performance rating.

It was found that Darlington Primary Care Trust had performed better than neighbouring organisations in many areas.

But patients complained about their inability to contact doctors' surgeries by telephone and lack of choice when being referred to specialists and hospitals.

Other patients had commented on the lack of privacy when speaking to the doctor's receptionist and also the fact they were not told how long they might have to wait.

Trust chairman Sandra Pollard said: "We did quite well, but we are not complacent and several of the things highlighted are easily achievable."

Survey results have been sent to all of the town's doctors' and dentists' practices.