HEALTH trusts created less than three years ago could be merged or disappear completely in yet another major shake-up in the NHS in Kent.

The Government has ordered a national review of primary care trusts, that together account for three-quarters of all spending in the NHS.

The review is aimed at slashing red tape and bureaucracy but is already under fire for threatening to break up pioneering partnerships between local councils and trusts.

Health chiefs in Kent admit some primary care trusts may have to join forces, even though the nine that serve Kent were only set up in 2002.

The Kent and Medway Strategic Health Authority, which is carrying out the review, will table its proposals in late September.

A spokesman for the health authority said a reduction in primary trusts was likely but denied any decisions had been taken.

In a statement Darren Grayson, who is leading the health authority’s review, said: "No decisions have been yet taken about the future configuration of PCTs in Kent and Medway as part of the review.

"Whatever the final outcome, close and excellent working relationships between PCTs and Kent County Council and Medway Council will continue to be central to the activities of primary care trusts."

While the latest NHS shake-up is causing anxiety among some, it has been welcomed by Kent County Council.

Cllr Peter Lake (Con), KCC cabinet member for social care, said his personal preference was for a single primary care trust to help curb costs.

He said: "In my view, this is a chance for essential streamlining to get the NHS right.

"Social services and the health service can get along well and I strongly believe that we need a single trust to manage social services and primary care.

"PCTs are a huge drain on the public resources in terms of management costs that are needed for frontline care."

However, Judith Armitt, chief executive of Medway Council, said it could it could jeopardise joint projects such as those set up to help older people live in their own homes for longer.