THE MEDICAL GROUP A MEETING OF THE MEDICAL GROUP

Present

LN, GM, DT, CWG, JL, JW, PR, Lesley Hunter, Samantha Hunter, Rebecca Whitaker.

Apologies

BJ, KC, KM, EH, JM, JK, BL, JM.

Minutes:

Rebecca Whitaker

The Patient Group Poster of Meeting Notes

LN showed the rest of the group logo ideas that could be used to advertise the patient group notice boards at each site. The group were also shown a template of what the meeting notes will look like on the poster. It was a unanimous group decision to use a logo- the logo is still to be decided.

It was also discussed that there could be one group member allocated to each site to monitor/change the notice boards.

Lesley mentioned that the practice is looking to add new buttons to the practice website that will take patients straight to the patient group page.

Daffodil Standards

Lesley discussed with the group that The Medical Group have registered for this and are awaiting the pack to be delivered.

Patient Participation Policy

LN and PR have agreed to check accuracy of information on the terms of reference and have asked Rebecca Whitaker to send an email to other members of the group who might like to get involved in this. Rebecca will also attach a copy of the current welcome pack so it can be reviewed.

Practice Website and E-Consult

Lesley mentioned to the group that the practice is looking to add simplified buttons to the website and to use simple wording, therefore making it more user friendly. Lesley showed the group a handout of ideas that could be used for the website and has asked for any feedback or suggestions to be emailed to Rebecca or Samantha.

Samantha and Lesley discussed with the group what e-consult is and Samantha produced a handout for the group. It was discussed that e-consult could be helpful in reducing the amount of emergency appointments needed.

JW suggested setting up an step-by-step guide on how e-consult works for patients and Samantha will look into this and plans to teach both staff and patients how e-consult works.

Lesley has suggested Samantha sets up a demo of e-consult at the next patient group meeting.

Catch Up From External Meetings

PR shared with the rest of the group some information that she had received from recent external meetings she had attended. She mentioned that there has been a change in public health funding which would affect areas such as care homes and that a new system had been introduced. She plans to find out more information on this at the next meeting.

A change in GP contracts where indemnity is concerned for GP’s and nurses was also discussed.

PR mentioned that Derwentside are looking to modernise their healthcare and facilities, as the current premises at Shotley Bridge is no longer fit for purpose. An eight week engagement event is to start shortly.

PR discussed that UHND are losing vascular services and that cardiology and rheumatology are struggling with staffing issues.

PR mentioned that after a recent visit to the emergency department that she noted there was not enough seating or space for the patients there. They are in talks with the CCG to find out what the plans are for the new emergency room; however it is believed that plans have been halted due to some of the buildings being listed. PR plans to find out more.

Improving access to psychological services was also mentioned, but as this is being legally challenged, it could take up to 18 months for patients to be seen by a counsellor if they are added to the waiting list after March. It was discussed that Talking Changes in now the only available option but isn’t always an appropriate for service for some patients.

Dementia Friendly Villages

PR introduced the group to a dementia friendly group that has been set up in Lanchester. Lanchester Practice is leading this and provides services such as musical memories. PR asked Lesley if this is something that could be promoted on Langley Park’s notice board. Lesley has suggested PR is to discuss this with Langley Park’s lead receptionist so that the GP’s can also be informed of this service.