Patient Participation Group (PPG)

At The Bay Medical Practice, we are committed to working in partnership with our patients to ensure that our services continue to meet the needs of the local community.

Our Patient Participation Group (PPG) provides a structured way for patients to share feedback, contribute ideas, and help shape the future of healthcare at our practice.

What is a Patient Participation Group (PPG)?

A PPG is a voluntary group of patients who meet regularly with practice staff to:

Share patient experiences and suggest improvements to services
Provide feedback on planned changes at the practice
Help the practice communicate updates to the wider patient community
Support health awareness initiatives and NHS campaigns

PPGs do not discuss individual medical issues but focus on service development and improvement, ensuring patient voices are represented in decision-making.

Why Join the PPG?

By joining the Patient Participation Group, you will:

Have a say in how the practice operates
Help shape healthcare services by giving constructive feedback
Work with the practice to support health campaigns and awareness initiatives
Represent the views of patients in your community

We encourage a diverse range of patients to join, including:

Young people, parents, and carers
Patients with long-term conditions or disabilities
People from different backgrounds and ethnic groups

The more diverse perspectives we have, the stronger our PPG becomes.

How Does the PPG Work?

The PPG meets regularly, either in person or virtually, to discuss topics such as:

Practice updates – new services and improvements
Patient feedback and survey results – what is working well and areas for improvement
Community health initiatives – helping patients stay well and informed

Some PPG members may also liaise with local NHS groups and Healthwatch Isle of Wight to ensure that patient interests are represented at a wider level.

Join Our Virtual PPG – Get Involved Online

If you cannot attend meetings in person, you can still contribute by joining our Virtual PPG.

This allows you to:

Receive updates via email about healthcare improvements
Take part in online surveys and discussions
Give feedback through digital forums or patient panels

The Virtual PPG is ideal for:

Working professionals
Carers and parents
Patients with mobility restrictions or health conditions

Common Questions About the PPG

Do I have to attend every meeting?
No, participation is flexible. You can choose to attend meetings when available or engage online.

Will I be discussing my own medical care?
No, the PPG focuses on improving services rather than individual medical concerns.

Is the PPG a complaints group?
No, the PPG works constructively with the practice to enhance services. If you have a complaint, please contact the practice team directly.

Who can join the PPG?
Any registered patient at the practice can join. We encourage patients of all ages and backgrounds to get involved.