What is a PPG?
A Patient Participation Group (PPG) is made up of patients who work alongside a GP practice or healthcare provider to help improve how services are delivered. The group gives patients a collective voice and helps the practice understand what matters most to the people who use it.
PPGs usually gather feedback from patients about their experiences and share this with the practice, focusing on general themes rather than individual complaints. They may be involved in discussing access to appointments, communication with patients, or how services could be improved to better meet local needs.
They also help with communication between the practice and patients, for example by supporting patient surveys, sharing information about changes to services, or promoting health campaigns. Some groups help raise awareness of wellbeing initiatives or local support services.
Overall, a PPG is about collaboration rather than criticism. It allows patients and staff to work together to improve care, strengthen trust, and ensure services reflect the community they serve.
The Modality AWC Patient Panel brings together representatives from all GP practices within the Modality Airedale, Wharfedale & Craven partnership. The panel meets every six months to discuss patient experience, ideas, and improvements.
Each GP practice has one patient representative who attends the panel on behalf of their surgery.