What is a Patient Participation Group (PPG)?

It is a group of volunteer patients and practice staff who engage and discuss the topics for discussion the patients would like them to be.

Patient participation is:

• Patients working with practices to improve services;
• Varied to suit local needs
• Based on cooperation

What is the aim of a PPG?

The aims of the Patient Participation Group (PPG) are as follows:

• To encourage a positive relationship between the patients and all of the surgery staff
• Represent a voice for the patient in the practice
• To be realistic about what you can achieve and to look for small changes that can make a real difference
• To work together constructively and positively to help identify solutions and to work in partnership with the practice and other local organisations
• Carry out research to find out what matters to patients and discussing the findings with the practice
• To encourage patients to engage in their own healthcare and future needs

The practice(s) will work with the PPG to develop an action plan for implementing changes.

How does having a PPG benefit the patients and the practice?

Good for patients

• Patients will take more responsibility for their own health
• Patients will have a clearer understanding and knowledge of the practice and staff
• Patients will benefit from improved communications with staff
• Patients will have a forum to suggest positive ideas and voice their concerns

Good for practice staff

• Staff will be able to plan services jointly with patients and this should make services more effective.
• Staff will be able to help patients with non-medical and social care issues
• Staff will be able to get help from patients in meeting targets and objectives
• Staff will have a forum to voice concerns, ideas and suggestions to patients
• Staff will build stronger links with their community

For the surgery to be able to develop a PPG :  WE NEED YOU!