Patient Participation Group Meeting Minutes

Patient Participation Group Meeting Minutes Held at Millfield Medical Centre on 19th July 2017

In attendance: Paul Weddle (Practice Business Manager), J Robson (Patient), J Richardson (Patient) and C Wraith (Patient)

1 Welcome Welcomed the new members to the group and explained the reasons why the practice wanted to develop a face to face group as well as maintaining the virtual (by email) group. As this was the first meeting no agenda had been set, so we focused on recent changes and how we can improve access and communication.

2 Appointments We have recently had Dr Rees and Dr Smithson retire from the practice, although we do have other GPs starting with us they will not be commencing until 2018. The practice is therefore trying to find locums to cover the shortfall in appointments as well as the current doctors working extra. The group requested this information should be provided to patients via a leaflet so they understand the situation we are currently in. PW will action this.

The practice will also look into providing this information via the telephone message whilst patients are on hold. PW will action this.

The surgery has altered the Saturday morning clinics and now helps provide extended appointments which are held at Pallion Health Centre. These extra appointments can be booked on the day and cover Monday – Friday 6pm – 8pm and on a Saturday and Sunday 8am – 4pm. These times may change depending on demand, but appointments are made via the receptionist at patients own practice.

3 Communication There was a comment regarding the TV screen not always been loud enough for patients to hear. PW will action this.

It was also discussed if the surgery could have clearer signs to indicate where the rooms are located as this was an issue. PW will action this.

The group decided the practice should look into setting up a Facebook account to help with relaying information. PW will action this.

Staff training should include diversity and awareness training for receptionists. PW will action this.

4 Premises The group felt there was a need to have more chairs available in the waiting area as on occasions patients are standing at busy times. PW will action this. 5 Future Meetings It was agreed to hold these meetings monthly for the next 6 months, on different times of day and days of the week to allow other patients the opportunity to attend. The planned dates are:

Tuesday 15th August 2017 at 5pm Friday 15th September 2017 at 10:30am Monday 16th October 2017 at 4:30pm Wednesday 15th November 2017 at 10am Friday 15th December 2017 at 1:30pm