PPGs represent the patient population of GP practices and are generally made up of a group of volunteer patients, the practice manager, and one or more GPs. They meet to discuss the services on offer, and how improvements can be made for the benefit of patients and the practice.
PPG groups are vital in ensuring the patient voice is heard as they provide an opportunity for local people to get involved and influence the provision of local health services.
The role of a PPG can include:
- Being a critical friend to the practice
- Advising the practice from a patient perspective and providing insight into the responsiveness and quality of services
- Encouraging patients to take greater responsibility for their own and their family’s health
- Carrying out research into the views of those who use the practice
- Organising health promotion events and improving health literacy
Regular communication with the patient population. If you are interested in finding out more information about your Practices PPG or would like to get involved you can get in touch with your Practice.