500 responses to a survey it circulated this month.

And the majority of those responding indicate residents are not satisfied with the medical care they are getting on the Island, Health Watch co-founder Mrs.

Jennifer Fisher revealed yesterday.

The 17-question survey was drawn up by Mrs. Fisher, her husband Eddie and Questions include: "What could be done locally to improve your confidence in the health care system?''; "Do you feel there are sufficient general practitioners and specialists to offer choice and adequate service?''; and "Do you feel that our present health care system offers value for money.'' Mrs. Fisher said initial indications were that people were not satisfied with the health care system.

She was reluctant to reveal any more about the surveys received so far so as not to affect the opinions of anyone who has not yet filled in one. But findings will be made public sometime early next month after they are tallied up, she said.

Mr. Fisher urged anyone who has not yet filled out the survey, but would like to give their opinion on health care issues, to do so.

"The survey is in its final stages and we would like to remind anybody interested in putting forth their views that the survey is an excellent vehicle for input by the public,'' he said.

"We have had back well over 500 (filled-in surveys) and would like to thank individuals and companies who, like us, feel that health care encompassing doctors visits, hospital care, insurance, health costs is worthy of attention.'' The surveys are available in Hamilton at Mr. Fisher's salon Images, and at Tangles and Toppers hair salons. They are also available at Sandys Hardware, Salon Roots and Salon Adorn in Somerset and Hair Odyssey in St. George's.