INDIVIDUALS can now obtain personal health advice and information directly on-line.

The new-look NHS Direct Online website, including for the first time an interactive enquiry service, was launched this week.

Plans have also been announced for a pilot project to provide information on health issues through digital interactive television.

The website on nhsdirect.nhs.uk was first set-up in December 1999 as an extension of the successful NHS Direct nurse-led telephone service. It has, on average, clocked up a staggering six million hits a month. In response to user feedback, NHS Direct Online has now become interactive and people will be able to make specific requests for information and receive a personal response.

Health bosses say the on-line enquiry service will be invaluable to people looking for information on rare conditions and for those who prefer to use the internet rather than the telephone because of sensory impairment or for privacy purposes.

Users will also be able to access a new comprehensive health encyclopaedia.

NHS Direct was showcased last week at a Government conference in Brussels as an example of how technology can be used to improve public services.

Health minister Hazel Blears said: "The range of NHS Direct services are evidence that the NHS is not just available in the hospital or the doctor's surgery.

The 21st century health service is meeting the needs of today's busy lifestyles and is available over the phone, the internet or through your television set.

"NHS Direct and NHS Direct Online have proved to be popular and helpful to those who use them. We are determined to build on this success through continual development and improvement.

"I am delighted that our achievements have been recognised on an international stage and that we have the opportunity to share our experiences in developing a multi-channel approach to the provision of healthcare."

She added: "The NHS Plan includes the commitment to provide NHS Direct via digital TV by 2004."

The six month pilot service offers more than 10,000 viewers in Hull and East Yorkshire information on health topics.