Central Surgery

Central Surgery initiated its public involvement work as part of becoming a PMS pilot.

A pharmaceutical company, Altana, has sponsored the work of Reverend Brian Howell in developing and supporting PPGs in South Tyneside PCT. Building on his successful work with Central Surgery (which has a general forum, a diabetic forum and an angina forum), Brian has also established patient groups in 4 other surgeries and at a local dental surgery and an Asda pharmacy.

Within the practice the PPG does have considerable influence and has provided many additions for the surgery such as; provision of pram park; introduction of air conditioning; provision of water fountains; chairs with arms after complaints from older patients

The PPG feels the critical factors for success are;

• Recognition that it is not expensive to set up Forums.

• The increased understanding of different perspectives is highly valuable.

Contact Details:

Rev Brian Howell
b_howell2004@yahoo.co.uk