Patient power shows potential for change in Bucks

From ensuring a flu jab season runs smoothly, to finding over 100 people to take part in innovative diabetes kit trials; Patient Participation Groups (PPGs) across Bucks are gearing up to shout about the great work they do and recruit more volunteers!

4 – 9 June is PPG Awareness Week and the theme this year covers ‘Patients, Power and Partnerships’

Working hand in hand with their local GP surgeries, they support and advise on what the patient needs are. GP surgeries across Bucks rely on the support PPGs offer in terms of a voice for all and keeping an ear to the ground.

Celebrating all the hard work that PPGs do is something that Noel Brown, Cabinet Member for Communities echoes, “These groups are pretty much unsung heros in our local communities and ensure the voice of the patient is heard. Each GP practice needs to hear from their patients to make sure the services they offer match the needs of the people they serve and their views really do make a difference.”

The Clinical Chair of Buckinghamshire’s CCG Dr Raj Bajwa added, “Patients and the public play an important role in the development of NHS services. Their ideas, experience and opinions are incredibly valuable and help us shape NHS services across Bucks. I would personally like to encourage patients across Bucks to get involved in shaping their local NHS services.

“The NHS belongs to us all. This invitation for ongoing patient participation is open to all. We would love to hear from you.”

Healthwatch Bucks is also delighted to be supporting the amazing work that PPGs are doing across the county. “As part of this support, we’re often out and about talking to PPGs about their needs and the ways we can help them. So if you’d like to talk to us about simple and effective ways to develop your PPG, do get in touch at info@healthwatchbucks.co.uk“said Helen Smith, PPG Project Lead, Healthwatch Bucks.

You can also find out more by looking at notices in your local surgery or emailing: bucks.ppg@nhs.net