THE public are being urged to give their views on a planned shake-up of the local health service.

A consultation programme is now taking place across the borough on the future of Primary Care Groups (PCGs). Bury and Rochdale Health Authority has put forward three options concerning the sector which is responsible for improving the health of their local population and reducing health inequalities, developing primary and community health services and commissioning a range of hospital and community services.

The first proposal is simply to leave the borough's two PCGs as they are. The second is to establish a separate Primary Care Trust based on the existing PCG areas, Bury North and Bury South, with their own boards and executive committees to give them more decision-making powers.

The third option is to establish a single, borough-wide Primary Care Trust.

The consultation will take place over the next three months.

During the period, up to October 31, there will be meetings with healthcare professionals, members of staff, partner organisations and members of the public.

The results of the consultations will be made public on November 14, although the Secretary of State will make the final decision on whether a Primary Care Trust should be established.

A number of meetings have already been scheduled to provide more information on the proposals. Details of the meetings, and how to put forward views, can be found in the consultation document, which can be obtained by ringing 762 3120.