A major new study has ruled that people living in Bedfordshire are getting a good standard of healthcare in the county's GP practices and health centres.

The results, published by the Healthcare Commission, put Bedfordshire Primary Care Trust on or above the national average in 34 out of 35 categories.

And three-quarters of patients said their GP or health centre had dealt with their problem in a completely satisfactory way.

An elated Dr Paul Hassan, Dunstable GP and chair of the PCT's professional executive committee, said: 'There are a lot of people, from health professionals to reception staff, who are working very hard to provide high quality services, and it is good to see this being recognised.

'Patients' views and experiences are also tremendously important in helping us improve, even when standards are already high.'

Health promotion was highly rated by the 1,200 people across Bedfordshire who took part in the survey.

Beds PCT was in the top 20 per cent in the country for blood pressure checks and alcohol advice, and patients said they were happy with the amount of time it takes to get an appointment.