PEOPLE are being given a chance to have their say about plans to modernise the health service.

Durham and Chester-le-Street and Derwentside Primary Care Groups are publishing proposals to becoming Primary Care Trusts from next April.

Primary Care Groups (PCG) were set up in 1999 by the Government to bring together GPs, nurses, social services and health authority staff with their local communities.

Primary Care Trusts have the same responsibilities as PCGs but, unlike their predecessors, they are independent from the health authority and receive funds directly from the Government.

Derwentside PCG chairman Dr Jon Levick said: "Primary Care Trusts are designed to give front-line NHS staff greater control over how money is spent and greater freedom to redesign health services for local people."

By becoming a PCT, Derwentside will be able to make a range of improvements, including developing services at Shotley Bridge Hospital and providing better premises for GPs.

Durham and Chester-le-Street hopes to invest more resources in primary and community care staff and premises and bring together health, social services and authorities.

For a copy of the leaflet, or information about the meetings, contact 0191-333 3914.