Frontline health staff and patients met to discuss the NHS

Local results from September's nationwide consultation have now been released by NHS South East Coast.

According to the health authority, one participant stated: "Cleanliness isn't just about infection.

"It also gives an impression to patients that they can be confident about the standard of care they are going to receive."

Other issues for patients and members of the public included cutting waiting times, a spokeswoman said.

'Same-day appointments'

And staff said that "providing better information about services was a matter in need of urgent attention", she added.

She said there was also "widespread feeling that it should be easier to contact GP surgeries and to make same-day appointments".

The discussions in Kent in the autumn were part of simultaneous, nationwide discussions video-linked with Sir Ara Darzi, a minister and surgeon.

Kent, Sussex and Surrey were represented by 40 patients, 40 members of the public and 40 health workers.

After the discussions, local groups of health and social care staff were set up to review services after the talks.

They are due to report back on their work in January 2008.