A RURAL care group is in the running for a national award at a ceremony in London next month.

The Dales Primary Care Group (PCG) has been shortlisted for recognition in the Doctor Vision Awards 2000, which mark initiatives by health groups around the country.

Covering the Wear Valley, Teesdale and Weardale area, the Dales PCG is responsible for the health of approximately 88,000 residents, and has introduced a series of initiatives in recent years.

The group has been shortlisted for its work on developing the use of information technology in primary care.

It has also taken steps towards developing a complete electronic patient records system in practices such as Barnard Castle, Bishop Auckland and Middleton-in-Teesdale.

The Dales PCG is also developing an easy-to-use website to provide health information for the public.

The website provides information about each GP practice in its area, including contact details, the range of services provided, and advice for common ailments.

Chris Bolland, Dales PCG information management and technology manager, said: "Dales Primary Care Group believes that it is providing a good service through the use of information technology - which is the best possible way for patients to gain access to information.

"This is the outcome that patients want, and have a right to expect."

The winners and overall winner will be announced at an award ceremony in London, on November 21.

The Dales PCG website is at www.dalespcg.co.uk