A WEBSITE has been launched as a quick and easy guide to help patients access healthcare.

The site, which went on line last month, has been designed by the Middlesbrough and Eston Primary Care Group as a tool for members of the public to learn more about the services available and where to find them.

As well as providing information about all the 26 GP practices within the group, the site also gives information about other NHS organisations, including the health authority and local NHS trusts.

Full Primary Care Group Board papers can also be accessed.

Of particular importance to local people is a section entitled Your Voice, which explains how people can give their views on health-related issues.

Anne Botterill, a community involvement manager, said: "We are taking very seriously the Government's requirement for us to involve local people in helping make decisions about the provision of health services in the future.

"We are developing a number of mechanisms whereby people can give us their opinions, and the latest is the feedback form on the website, which lets people contact us electronically."

Dr Henry Waters, chairman of the Primary Care Group, added: "The launch of our website is an exciting step forward for us. It gives the opportunity for people to find out more about the NHS and, if they want, to get involved in how it operates at a local level."

The website address is www.mandepcg.co.uk