Introduction
There is plenty of evidence that involving Patients and the Public in service design and quality improvements has a positive effect on patient outcomes. By seeking their involvement, it is possible to ensure that we focus on meeting the needs of the patient.
The Department of Health has produced a range of guidance and legislation to promote Public, Patient Involvement (PPI) including the Health and Social Care Act 2012, NHS Constitution, NHS Standard Contract and CQC standards.
Reviewing the Guidance from the Healthcare Quality Improvement Partnership and National Survivor User Network it is desirable to adopt the 7 principles of involvement as a basis for our strategy and practice moving forward. These principles are:
- Representation – ensuring a broad range of our service users and population
- Inclusivity – actively reducing barriers to participation
- Early and Continuous
- Transparency – ensuring participants understand their role and the publishing of outcomes of the process
- Clarity of purpose – a clear definition of what is expected before involvement
- Cost effectiveness – demonstrably adding value
- Feedback – ensuring feedback to those involved at all stages of the process.