PPG Updates

In this meeting, we explored the wide range of roles within primary care, with a focus on the expanding team beyond GPs and nurses. We discussed the roles of clinical pharmacists, social prescribers, and advanced practitioners, aiming to improve understanding of the services available and how care navigation works within the practice. This session helped clarify how patients can access the right care from the right professional at the right time.

Click to download slides from the meeting.

Patient Participation Group (PPG) Meeting Summary – 11 August 2025

The Patient Participation Group met on 11 August 2025 for a highly productive and engaging session. The discussion was described by attendees as both useful and insightful, with a strong focus on improving patient access and awareness of digital tools with many practical ideas shared. 

Key Discussion Points & Brainstorm Outcomes:

• Overcoming barriers in teaching patients how to use online services.
• Exploring digital consultation options for a range of non-urgent needs, including:
  • Requesting smear tests and vaccines
  • Updating personal details
  • Completing travel forms
  • Submitting subject access requests
  • Setting up online access
  • Requesting sick notes
  • Requesting updates on referrals
  • Addressing queries that could be resolved at a pharmacy first

• Emphasis on improving patient confidence in using digital services through better support and communication.

• Supporting patients to feel more confident with online tools through guidance and reassurance.

Online requests - Awareness Campaign:

The group discussed the practice’s plan to raise awareness of online consultations, an online contact form system that:

• Allows patients to submit non-urgent requests without calling or visiting the practice
• Helps reduce phone line pressure and speeds up responses
• Is designed to make it easier for patients to explain their needs, with requests prioritised appropriately

The benefits of online requests were clearly explained, and it was agreed that ongoing patient feedback will be welcomed throughout its rollout to ensure it meets local needs.

Next Steps:

• The PPG will actively promote online consultations and other access options within the community.
• The practice will continue to monitor usage, collect feedback, and provide training for both staff and patients.
• Printed guides and in-person support will remain available to ensure inclusivity for those less confident with digital tools.

Next Meeting: Tuesday 11 November 2025

Click to download slides from the meeting.

TBMG Patient Participation Group (PPG) Meeting Summary

Date: 11/11/2025
Attendees: TBMG staff representatives, members of the Patient Participation Group (TBMG patients), and guest speakers from the Social Prescribing team (MIND)

1. Review of Previous Meeting (August 2025)

The group revisited discussions from the August meeting, which focused on improving awareness of the wider range of healthcare professionals available at the practice and enhancing online access for patients.

2. “You Said, We Did” Updates

a. eConsult Availability

• You Said: Patients were frustrated when eConsult was unavailable outside limited hours.
• We Did: TBMG has extended eConsult availability to 8:00am–6:30pm on weekdays.
• A prominent homepage button now highlights this change, supported by QR codes on waiting room posters and updates shared across social media and waiting room screens.

b. Awareness of Practice Staff Roles

• You Said: Many patients were unaware of the range of staff and roles within the practice.
• We Did: The TBMG website has been updated to clearly display the wider team—including clinical and non-clinical roles—to help patients understand why they may see different healthcare professionals.
• The Social Prescribing team joined this meeting to introduce their service and answer questions, supporting our goal of improving visibility and understanding of available care pathways.

3. Social Prescribing Presentation – MIND

The Social Prescribing Team provided an overview of the Social Prescribing service, which offers practical and emotional support to patients by connecting them with local community resources.

Discussion points included:

• Raising awareness: How the PPG can help promote the service within the community. Ideas included flyers, community noticeboards, and sharing information through local groups (e.g., churches, clubs, coffee mornings).
• Identifying barriers: The group discussed possible obstacles patients may face, such as transport issues, uncertainty about the service, or feeling apprehensive about taking part.

4. Enhanced Access

The group discussed the Enhanced Access offer—appointments available during evenings and weekends. Members shared experiences and asked questions about how and why patients may sometimes be offered appointments at other local practices.

5. Digital Pathways

Members began a discussion around TBMG’s current digital channels (website, eConsult, online booking, and social media). The group agreed to plan an interactive session at a future meeting to explore ways to simplify digital access and improve patient pathways.

6. Next Steps / Future Agenda Items

·       Prepare for a future digital engagement session.

·       Suggestions for next agenda items are welcome from all members.

The next meeting is scheduled to be held in February 2026. Members will be contacted closer to the time once fully confirmed with further details.