Community and consumer participation in health.

Fifteen area health services currently have formal structures for ongoing community participation. These structures are variously called health councils, health consumer networks, consumer and community health forums, and consultative committees. The role and activities undertaken vary and include local needs assessment, input to planning, and health promotion activities. The two area health services without an arealevel structure for community participation are in metropolitan Sydney; however, plans are in place to ensure consumer involvement in these areas.