Overdale Medical Practice Patient Participation Group
Josta Gardner, a member of the Overdale Medical Practice Patient Participation Group in Derbyshire explained how their work helps patients to better manage their own health.
Josta joined the Overdale Medical Practice PPG in 2003 (as a founder member) and now 6 years later, is the chair of the group. The group has undertaken a wide range of activities since its formation, from raising patient awareness and fund-raising to providing practical assistance such as assisting at the annual flu clinics.
Health education
The group’s successes are far reaching and varied. Over the years the PPG has built up a library of medical DVDs, which are for the patients’ use to help educate themselves on their condition, and how to best manage their own health. A resources bank of medical equipment has also been financed from fund raising activities. A GP in the group is a keen walker and the group is currently investigating local walking routes, which may be introduced in the future as a way for patients to get healthy through exercise!
Practical improvements
The group’s work also extends to more practical issues - for example it was noticed that the Practice had an issue with car parking, in particular there were no spaces available for disabled patients and visitors. This was promptly raised at the PPG, and following consultation with the GPs, the situation was rectified.
It is mandatory that all practices carry out patient surveys, which have to be discussed with a non-executive representative of a PCO. The Overdale Practice chooses to discuss the findings of its patient survey with the PPG.
Community focused
According to Josta, the group is most proud of being regarded as an asset to the Practice. The last few years have been a steep learning curve; but the PPG has helped the practice formulate policy, and feels it is now making a real difference to the healthcare in its local community. The group meets regularly to put forward views expressed by patients and it is fully briefed on practice matters by the professionals on the committee. There are friendly, frank and supportive discussions on all non-medical matters and it is felt that the group works well for the benefit of patients and staff of the Overdale Medical Practice.