How to join a PPG
If you are interested in getting involved, the first step is to find out if your practice already has an established PPG. Below are some simple steps to get you started:
Here are some tips on getting started:
- Speak to the practice manager: If you’re not sure whether your local GP surgery has a PPG, either look out for information and posters about the group in the surgery, or ask the reception staff or the practice manager, who is likely to be involved in running the group.
- Sign up: All PPGs are different and recruit members in different ways, but any group will be keen to hear from interested individuals. It’s a usual requirement to be registered at the practice in order to become a member. Your practice manager will be able to give you details of who to contact to sign up, and when the next meeting is taking place.
- Two’s company: If you’re nervous about going alone, why not encourage a friend to go with you?
- Take action: Most groups meet on a regular basis at the surgery itself to give patients, GPs and practice staff an opportunity to meet, to exchange ideas and information, and then to take action.
- Share your ideas: Be prepared to give your opinion about the way the practice is run, and any thoughts you have on how things could be improved – from the welcome patients get when they arrive at the practice, to the parking facilities or the appointments systems, the group and the practice will be keen to hear your views.