The vital role of Patient Participation Groups: Insights from our recent seminar
I’m pleased to share some exciting insights and key takeaways from this well-attended and interactive session. Whether you’re already involved with a PPG or curious about what they do, I hope you’ll find this information both useful and inspiring.
What Are PPGs?
First, a quick refresher: PPGs are groups of patients who work with their local GP practices to improve services and foster better communication between the practice and its patients. They play a crucial role in shaping healthcare to better meet the needs of the community.
Highlights from the Seminar
Our seminar brought together 26 PPG members from 15 different surgeries across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, along with Healthwatch staff and our dedicated Chair and Vice Chair. Here’s a snapshot of what we discussed:
1. Sharing Success Stories
One of the most inspiring aspects of the day was hearing about the incredible initiatives PPGs have been leading. For example, Kimbolton PPG organised COVID-19 and flu vaccination clinics, significantly improving access for their community. They also hold educational events on important health topics such as diabetes and mental health, which draw large, engaged audiences.
2. Tackling Challenges
Of course, the session wasn’t all about successes. We also discussed the common challenges PPGs face, such as recruiting new members and ensuring diverse representation. A key takeaway was the need for better communication and more flexible meeting times to attract a wider range of participants, including younger people and those from different cultural backgrounds.
3. Enhancing Communication
Effective communication emerged as a critical factor in PPG success. This includes not only how PPGs interact with their practices but also how they reach out to the wider community. Ideas such as using social media, newsletters, and even creating podcasts were floated to help PPGs connect more effectively.
4. Improving Systems
We delved into practical issues, such as the efficiency of surgery phone systems. Many participants highlighted the need for better transparency and more user-friendly systems, including options for online booking and improved callback features.
Building the future together
One of the seminar’s key outcomes was the desire to create a standalone group, similar to the Cambridge Primary Care Patient Group (CPCPG) in South Cambridgeshire. Such a group would provide a more structured and supportive network for PPGs, helping them share resources, ideas, and best practices more effectively.
Get involved!
If you’re not yet part of a PPG, I strongly encourage you to consider joining. It’s a fantastic way to have a direct impact on your local healthcare services and ensure your community’s voice is heard. For those already involved, thank you for your dedication and hard work!
Conclusion
Our recent seminar was a testament to the power of collaboration and the incredible difference that engaged, proactive PPGs can make. By working together, sharing our successes and challenges, and striving for better communication and inclusivity, we can continue to improve our healthcare system for everyone.
Stay tuned for more updates and upcoming events. Together, we can make a real difference. And feel free to share your thoughts and experiences via the link below. Let’s keep the conversation going!
