The development of a public participation forum was flagged up as essential — and the use of new technology will be paramount.

“Having such a forum will be a very positive way forward,” said committee member Councillor Lorraine Caddell.

“It will provide opportunities to ensure information and data reaches the right people so they can pick it up when they need it most.

“Chatrooms and on-line forums will be vital ways of sharing such information.”

A report, agreed by CHP members, identified the important role it is envisaged a “virtual network” could play. “NHS boards, as public bodies, must be seen as publicly accountable organ-isations,” it noted.

“They need to reassure the public the NHS is learning from people’s experiences, listening to their views and delivering the care and support they require.”

However, NHS Tayside’s efforts to communicate better with the public will not begin and end with computers.

“While this is one means by which we can engage and consult with the public, other mechanisms also need to be considered which take account of hard to reach groups,” the report stated.

“When developing the public participation forum the CHP should be able to demonstrate it can engage, communicate and involve the wider community, rather than have people respond to premeditated plans conceived by professionals.

“The development of a public participation forum will take forward the development of healthcare services which are responsive to the needs of the local population in the 21st century,” the report continued.

“This would allow for locally-developed services which are fully supported by the local population.”

The general manager of Perth and Kinross CHP, Bill Nicoll, was happy to support the new plan. “An increasing number of people have access to computers,” he said. “The use of information technology can be a very important way of reaching out to people.”