Local survey unveils big NHS concerns

3.02.18pm GMT Thu 24th Jan 2008

A massive NHS survey by Sue Doughty and the Liberal Democrats last autumn has revealed a number of concerns.

Of over 1,300 people who returned the survey, 41% thought local services have deteriorated recently, while only 24% noted an improvement.

The most common criticisms of the NHS were that it is badly managed and wastes money. Respondents mostly suggested that the NHS should be run by locally accountable health boards or professionals - and not from Whitehall.

Sue Doughty expressed concern that 44% of people had had trouble getting NHS dental treatment. "There are simply not enough NHS dentists in the Guildford area," Sue told Focus.

Overall, a massive 76% of people declared themselves unsatisfied with the Government's handling of the NHS.

There was good news for the Royal Surrey though. Residents were generally pleased with treatment received at our local hospital - which was saved last year after a massive cross-community campaign.

Sue said, "This survey has shown why the Royal Surrey is so important to local people. It has improved so much in the last few years. However, the survey has also shown huge concern about Labour's handling of the NHS. I will be feeding these back to our health spokesman Norman Lamb MP and we will push the Government for action."