Wellbrook Medical Centre

The surgery opened in 2002 following relocation. There are 5 GPs - this will increase soon to 7 GPs. The practice population is approximately 8500 patients.

In February 2000 the Practice Manager approached patients to set up the PPG. Seventeen volunteers met with the Practice Manager to start the group.

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:

•  Communication is crucial and getting to know personalities of Doctors..

•  'Non - complaining'' PPG is important - PPG does not deal with complaints.

•  Develop real feeling of partnership.

•  Stability of people - staying together as a team in the PPG..

•  Informal meetings of Chair of PPG and Practice Manager work well..