MEMBERS of the Patient Participation Group at Frome Medical Practice recently visited the practice for a behind-the-scenes tour. Nine members of the group heard from several different team members and gained insight into the work they undertake.
The tour started with an introduction from practice manager, Karen Creffield, who gave an overview of the size of the practice in terms of patient numbers and staffing across all the different teams, from those working in scheduling who ensure the right sessions are planned, with the right health care professional available to see patients, to the innovative workflow team who now undertake administrative work to free up GPs for more patient-facing time.
Karen said, “We really value our Patient Participation Group, so when they recently suggested that hearing what the different teams do at the practice would be helpful to new members, we decided to organise this tour for the whole group. There is a great deal that goes on behind the scenes at the practice, so it was a really useful opportunity to give the group a greater understanding about this.”
The group also heard from the medicines management, complex care, clinical, health connections, digital and data and sustainability teams, who all gave a brief overview of the work they do to support the health and wellbeing of patients at the practice.
Chris Simpson, chair of the Patient Participation Group, said, “The Patient Participation Group has been given a fascinating insight into how Frome Medical Practice cares for almost 30,000 patients from Frome and the surrounding area.
“The group saw, for example, how the new appointments system has enabled patients to see the right clinician in the most timely way. The group also saw how patients with complex needs were cared for, how patients were supported with information technology and how the practice interfaces with other facets of the NHS. Many thanks to the team at the practice for hosting us for this event.”
The Patient Participation Group works alongside the practice team and patients, to help improve services and ensure the patient voice is heard. The group meets every six weeks for joint discussions with senior partners and management on pertinent issues, which might include future service planning or developments and raising issues that concern patients.
New members are always welcome and further information about the PPG and joining the group is available on the practice website – https://www. fromemedicalpractice.co.uk/about-the-ppg
