Patient Participation Group (PPG)

What is a PPG?

A Patient Participation Group (PPG) is a group of volunteer patients, carers and GP practice staff who meet to discuss practice issues and patient experience to improve the service.

A typical PPG brings together patients, GPs and staff from a GP practice (or group of practices) they meet regularly to discuss issues relating to their surgery and the services provided to patients.

• GPs and staff can work with patients to plan services which best meet the needs of the people who use those services
• They can provide help and advice for patients on non-medical or social care issues.
• Patients can help the practice to meet its targets and objectives
• GPs and staff have an opportunity to share their ideas with patients.
• They get closer to their community – even more important as GPs take on increasing responsibility for spending more of the NHS budget to plan and buy health services for local people.
• They encourage patients to be more responsible for their own health
• Patients know more about their GP practice and its staff
• Patients can have a say on any plans to change their family doctor services
• Communication between patients and practice staff improves
• Patients have a chance to make suggestions and ask questions
• Local people can raise money to improve the facilities at their GP surgery 

A Patient Participation Group is NOT:

A forum for complaints, although the group may discuss if there is a common theme and advise on improvements

A time consuming activity for staff or patients

PPG patient members cannot provide any medical advice to other patients, or deal with personal/medical issues or individual patient complaints during the meeting. These should be dealt with outside The meeting following the practices already established procedures.

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For further information on how to join our PPG please Contact us.

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