A NEW Dorset Health Authority website will provide free access to health information for patients across Dorset.

The launch of the site coincides with the installation of 16 computer terminals at Weymouth Library - helping the public to get to grips with the information the internet has to offer.

'HealthInfo Dorset' will provide accredited health and social care information.

Dorset Health Authority spokeswoman Pauline Chudley said: "The 'HealthInfo Dorset' website is an important new development aimed at improving access to health and social care information for local people.

"The link with local libraries is a very important step towards making health information readily available to more people."

The site has been designed according to the needs of patients, and provides links to a number of topics.

'Your Health' links to NHS Direct and other accredited health information, whilst details of the nearest GP, dentist, optician and pharmacist are given in the 'NHS Services' section of the site.

A special 'Out of Hours' page details how to find health care providers during evenings, weekends and bank holidays, and information about social services and local self-help groups is also listed.

Access to the site will be available at libraries across the county participating in the People's Network - a plan to increase access to the internet for the public.

Head of library services Ian Lewis said the 16 new computer terminals at Weymouth library would play a vital role.

He said: "This clearly represents an enormous step forward in giving Weymouth people access to the internet and makes important websites like 'HealthInfo Dorset' even more important in our daily lives." Visit www.dorset.swest.nhs.uk/healthinfo