Rotherham patients given a voice in health decisions

GPs have promised to include the views of patients when they make their decisions under the new structure for providing health services in Rotherham.

The NHS Rotherham Clinical Commissioning Group will take into account views expressed via the borough’s Patient Participation group network.

Most Rotherham GP practices now have a Patient Participation Group which enable patients to pass on their experiences of services and help identify areas where they can be improved.

So far, the groups have set up working parties to look into improving the appointments system and helping to redesign surgeries, surgery websites and telephone systems.

Su Lockwood, NHS Rotherham Clinical Commissioning Group lay member for public and patient engagement, said: “We are very lucky in Rotherham to have such an active and positive PPG network which enables us to share ideas and concerns.

“There is no doubt that the patient voice will be heard in future decision making. Patients will an influence on our strategies in the coming years to enable us meet the longer-term health needs of local people.”

The PPG network met for the fourth time recently with the main speaker being Chris Edwards, chief officer of NHS Rotherham CCG.

Discussions centred around how important the public voice is in ensuring safe, quality health services, following the recent Francis report on Mid Staffordshire Hospital.

Chris said: “Our patients’ voices will be crucial in delivering improved healthcare and highlighting areas of concern.  

“Many of the recommendations from the Francis report on Mid Staffordshire Hospital are as a direct consequence of lessons learned from patient experiences.  

“By learning from the experiences of Rotherham patients we can shape the design of key health services and ensure Rotherham patients have continued access to high quality, safe services in the future.”