At Beacon we want to work with our patients, communities and staff as one team. This goes beyond the traditional relationship between GP and patient and much more towards a model where patients are actively involved in shaping their own health care and the services that we offer.
We currently have two Patient Participation Groups (PPGs), one operating in Plympton and the other in Ivybridge. Each are made up of a number of patients that represent the overall community – helping us to understand what patients need and want from us.
We are always on the lookout for new members to join these groups, so if you think you can help make a difference then email bmgplymptonppg@gmail.com or ivyhealthppg@outlook.comto register your interest.
What is a PPG?
A PPG, or Patient Participation Group, is a group of keen, motivated individuals who aim to act as a critical friend to Beacon Medical Group – with patient’s needs in mind and to encourage changes to benefit all.
What have they achieved?
Both PPGs have given us a strong forum for discussion when setting priorities and shaping processes. Here are just a few that have taken place in the last two years:
Patient surveys and suggestion boxes
Promoting the use of the check-in touch screen computers
Organising and supporting patient educational evenings on subjects such as Dementia and Stroke Awareness
Encouraged and promoted student and medical student placements
Informed the improvement of the telephone script message based on feedback collated
Initiated and informed discussion on topics such as surgery access and signage
Developed a new, improved patient newsletter provided in an easy to read format
What next?
PPGs will continue to:
Encourage patients to help themselves through education and self-care
Promote further patient surveys
Support staff with the introduction of new initiatives
Support the production of the BMG patient newsletter
Assist and support Beacon with various activities and events such as educational evenings
Assist patients through involvement with the local community through participation in meetings concerning local Health and Social issues
Help provide a communication between Beacon and patients where possible.
How can you help?
Contact your local PPG with any ideas or suggestions you may have that affect general patient care
Join your local PPG
Follow us on social media to keep up to date with the latest news
Recent Minutes
Here is where you can find the most recent minutes from the meetings of our patient participation groups.
