NHS patients in South Worcestershire can now choose where and when they wish to receive hospital treatment.

From the beginning of this month, people throughout the area have had the right to be offered the choice of at least four hospitals or clinics when they need to see a specialist for further treatment.

Paul Bates, acting chief executive of the South Worcestershire Primary Care Trust, said: "When a patient is referred to a specialist for further treatment they will be provided with the information they need to make a choice about which hospital or clinic appointment is best for them."

He added: "They can therefore book the appointment there and then, but patients also have the option to take away information about their local hospitals and make their choice later."

There is a range of ways in which patients can get information and book their appointment - including the new Choose and Book computer system, by telephone or by using the internet.

By the time a patient leaves the doctor's surgery they will have either made their choice or know what the next step is to make that choice.

Alex Stewart-Cleary, chairman of the patient and public involvement forum for South Worcestershire, said: "This is excellent news for patients.

"However, choice will only work to the full if patients exercise their new rights to choose.

"I hope that patients will work with the health professional to make the best use of this system."

From January 1, choice menus have been made up of at least four hospitals or clinics. During 2006 choice will be extended and by 2008 patients will be able to choose from any hospital or provider which meets NHS standards at NHS costs.