BURY health bosses were given a pat on the back for their "open and transparent" approach in the latest performance review for 1998.

The review compiled by NHS regional office examined performance in a number of key local health care areas.

Bury and Rochdale Health Authority was praised for the significant changes it has made to the health agenda, with the development of the new primary care groups (PCGs) due to be up-and-running in April.

The report claimed the progress was particularly good as it was recognised that the abolition of GP fund-holders - who are currently responsible for their own budgets - and the replacement by the care groups would have a greater impact in Bury considering the high level of GP funholders.

The out-of-hours on call service for Bury, BARDOC, was described as a comprehensive service which the health authority was asked to ensure continues when PCGs are in place.

Local learning disability services were commended . They were said to be improved and better co-ordinated.

The authority, which purchases health care services for the borough, was praised for its successful contracting of services for the last financial year.

And in particular its work as a lead purchaser for specialist children's services for the Greater Manchester area and the Greater Manchester Ambulance Service. Public health issues in the area were said to be very good. The report commended health bosses in their achievement of becoming a Health Action Zone from April this year and their joint working for Single Regeneration bids.

The report stated that health bosses were well prepared to implement national frameworks such as improvement plans for the treatment of coronary heart disease.

And the authority was said to be in a good financial position.

Areas for improvement outlined in the report included mental health services.

The review stated: "The authority must concentrate its efforts on the mental health agenda, in particular to develop 24-hour supported accommodation for those with long-term challenging needs in Bury."

A strategic approach was recommended to maintain and develop the quality of training in local hospitals. And the authority has been advised to ensure that primary care services, such as hospital care and local trusts, have a sufficient contingency plan in place.

Mr Evan Boucher, director of development planning, said: "The health authority was encouraged by the latest assessment of performance from the regional office as it was commended for its work in a number of areas."

He added: "The review also pointed to priority areas where continued efforts were required locally. We will need to continue these efforts by developing a longer term strategy to meet these standards."

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