THOUSANDS of patients across Kirklees have been able to select where they receive treatment.

After the introduction of NHS Choices two years ago, 25,000 local people have had a say on where they are treated.

The majority have opted to be treated at either Huddersfield Royal Infirmary or the Calderdale Royal Hospital in Halifax.

But patients also have the right to choose from independent or private health providers.

Dr Sukhdeep Gujral, of Marsh Surgery at Westbourne Road, is one of the local GPs who have been supporting patients’ right to choose.

He said: “Giving patients more choice over where they have their hospital treatment is a good idea.

“However, we are finding that the majority of patients are choosing to have their treatment locally, mainly because it is more convenient and they are happy with the services provided at their local hospital.”

Since the introduction of NHS Choice for patients two years ago, many people have been asking about waiting times for specialist services at different hospitals.

They can compare hospitals throughout England and judge which offers the best treatment.

Anyone in Kirklees can choose to be treated at a hospital anywhere in the UK if it suits them and their personal circumstances.

Christine Powell, organiser at NHS Choices in Kirklees, said: “Choice is about making it easier and more convenient for patients to access the services that best suit their needs in their desired location.

“Whether they make the choice based on how quickly they can be seen, location, parking facilities or the reputation of the hospital, it is entirely up to them.

“Local people have responded well and are finding they are benefiting from shorter waiting times and greater convenience.”

Mrs Powell added: “The ultimate aim is to give patients more control, so their treatment is more convenient to suit their own personal circumstances, giving them greater access to a wider range of locations and greater peace of mind.

“More choice is expected to help drive up quality standards, improving healthcare services across the NHS.”