The group was started in 2010 and we have worked with the practice to enhance the delivery of primary care services in a number of areas. To date here are just a few of the initiatives which we have contributed:
- Encouraging patients to reduce DNA’s
- Contributed in the planning of the new building
For more information concerning the work of the Patient Participation Group speak to our Practice Manager.
The Aims of the Patient Participation Group
“To work with their practice to provide practical support, to help patients take more responsibility for their own health and to provide strategic input and advice. PPGs are based on cooperation between the practice staff and patients.”
PPG are good for patients because:
- Patients will be more responsible for their own health.
- Patients will have a better understanding and knowledge of the practice and its staff.
- Patients will be consulted about arrangements for their primary healthcare before decisions are made.
- Patients will benefit from improved communications with staff.
- Patients will have a forum to suggest positive ideas and voice concerns.
PPGs are good for practice staff because:
- GPs and their staff will be able to plan services jointly with patients in order to increase their effectiveness.
- They will be able to help patients with non-medical and social care issues.
- They will be able to get help from patients in meeting targets and objectives.
- They will have a forum to voice concerns, ideas and suggestions to patients.
- They will get closer to the community for whom they care.
Being Representative
A common criticism of many PPGs is that they are not representative of the practice population. It is always going to be difficult to get a group that exactly reflects the demographics of our practice, and volunteer roles tend to attract those that have a certain level of confidence and free-time, and have flexibility. However, a PPG is there to make sure that the patient voice is listened to and not necessarily always to be the voice itself. Therefore, if you wish to volunteer please contact the Practice Manager.
