FOR some patients it's the reputation and for others it's being near a relative, but people in Crediton are now being asked to spell out how they reach their decisions about which hospital they want to go to for their treatment.

A national survey this month will be asking Crediton people how much they know about their right to choose where to be treated and the factors that help them make their decision.

A sample of patients preparing to go into hospital will be asked if they are aware that when their GP refers for treatment, they can choose to go anywhere in England. This includes NHS hospitals and some independent (private) hospitals, where care is funded by the NHS.

Patients being referred to a hospital can go through the options with their GP, and make a choice based on whatever they consider most important. Waiting times, convenience, parking, being near friends and family and reputation are all factors that people can take into account, and many will rely on their GP's recommendation.

The GP can use the Choose and Book system on his or her computer to make the appointment at a time and place that's most convenient. Or patients can decide to make the booking themselves later, using a unique reference number that means they can make the appointment from home, either on the phone or online.

Crediton people wanting to find out more can compare local NHS hospitals at http://www.nhs.uk/comparehospitals">www.nhs.uk/comparehospitals or visit the NHS Choices website at http://www.nhs.uk">www.nhs.uk and check out all the hospitals in the area – both NHS and independent.

It is important to remember that in some circumstances patients cannot be given a choice, including referral to maternity or mental health services, or if they need to be treated quickly, such as for a suspected stroke, heart attack or cancer.