PATIENTS, who recently used an ambulance, may soon be asked to take part in a survey to ensure the service meets the needs of the residents.

Over the next week or so, 850 randomly selected patients will have a questionnaire dropping through their letterbox.

Every Ambulance Trust in England is carrying out this survey as part of a national programme led by the Commission for Health Improvement (CHI).

This survey is part of the commitment, set up in the NHS Plan, to design a health service around the needs of patients.

Russell B Hamilton, Chief Executive at Hereford and Worcester Ambulance Service Trust said: "Patients will be asked about various aspects of their experiences, including the request for an ambulance, the quality of their care, communication with the ambulance crew, the journey to hospital and information they were given.

"We are keen to know what patients think about their local ambulance service.

"Obtaining feedback from patients and taking account of their views and priorities is vital for bringing about improvements in the quality of care.

"This is an excellent way for patients to help shape the services we provide in the future."

CHI will publish the results in the summer.

The results will also feed into Hereford and Worcester Ambulance Trust's performance rating for 2004.