In response to increased feedback from residents about inactive Patient Participation Groups (PPG’s) at local GP practices, Healthwatch Rochdale conducted a re-audit across the borough in December 2023 and January 2024. The report highlights progress made since 2022, noting an increase in active PPG’s and improved PPG information on GP websites. However, some practices still face challenges, such as difficulties in contacting them and a lack of awareness about PPG’s among reception staff.
Key recommendations include updating websites with current PPG information, reminding practices of their contractual obligations to maintain PPG’s, providing support and training to re-establish groups, and ensuring staff are informed about the purpose of PPG’s. Further steps are planned, such as setting up PPG meetings at the Primary Care Network (PCN) level to enhance neighbourhood collaboration and the possibility of re-establishing a locality-based PPG for the whole borough.
Download the Report here: