The PCT has posed a series of questions to test what people think about current services, including how easily they can get appointments, how far they travel and the journey they go through in the treatment process if they are referred for tests. Other questions are designed to explore ideas for future improvements, including GP opening hours and additional distances people would travel for an improvement in services.
The information gathered will be used as the basis for more detailed discussions and planning in the autumn.
The Big Health Debate has involvement from local GPs and NHS staff and other health partners. The PCT will also be discussing the ideas at Neighbourhood Committee meetings across the city.
"I am a passionate advocate for this campaign," said Dr Margaret Goddard, a North Liverpool GP and Medical Director for the Liverpool Primary Care Trusts.
"We have some of the best local health services but many of our buildings are crumbling and limit the expansion of services that can and should be provided out of hospital. People want joined up health services delivered near to where they live by the right professional at a convenient time."
"The NHS is seeking to invest more in out of hospital care than in hospitals and we think this is right for Liverpool too. We will always need good hospitals as well but we have to find a better balance between patients having to go to hospital and getting services locally. I would encourage people to get involved and have their say"
Derek Campbell, Chief Executive of the Liverpool Primary Care Trusts added: "Over 90% of all NHS healthcare is experienced outside of hospitals so this is an issue which affects almost everyone in the city. We need to talk to as many people and groups as we can. We may not agree on everything but through discussion as part of the Big Health Debate we are confident we will come up with the right solutions."
People can get involved in the Big Health Debate
* Via the website www.bighealthdebate.info which contains a short online survey
* Through questionnaires in local health centres, GP surgeries and other public places
* By phoning 0800 0121733 (freephone) to request a survey pac
