• Location: Bridport Medical Centre
• Ammonite Representatives: AM AMa CG Dr AF MM
• PPG representatives: BB BH RC SM GP KL

Welcome and introductions

AM welcomed the group and introductions were made.

Ammonite updates

CG delivered updates from the reception team:

• Staffing updates- GS has recently joined the team and is doing brilliantly, GR has passed her probation and will be staying with the team.
• CG explained to the group that she creates the wellbeing displays in the reception area. March is Ovarian Cancer awareness along with the 11th of March being smoking prevention day.
• CG has recently qualified as a Mental Health first aider.
• CG has created a new patient satisfaction questionnaire, it still needs a few tweaks but will be out shortly

AMa delivered some updates from the nursing team:

• Consent forms are now required prior to RSV, pneumonia, flu and shingles vaccinations. Patients will need to complete the consent form in order for the vaccination to go ahead, whether this is a paper copy or sent via a link
• We will be taking part in the covid spring booster program for patients aged 75 and over. Those that are eligible will be sent an invitation. There will be some Saturday clinics and availability during the week.
• LSt-diabetic nurse- has returned and will be working at BMC on a Thursday and Friday, along with a Wednesday at Tunnel Road.

In touch AI

MM presented a PowerPoint to the group , looking at a new in touch AI system the practice is considering, with the aim of improving access whilst supporting the reception team.

This is still in the development/testing stages with more information to follow.

PPG going forwards

There was some discussion about finding a new chairperson and notetaker for the group, as well as looking for new members.

It was agreed that it would be beneficial if all PPG members from all 3 sites were able to meet and share ideas, agreed to look at a potential yearly meeting to collaborate the 2 groups.

It was also suggested to have a look at the PPG ToR to see if any updates or improvements can be made.

GP raised the idea of looking at how we can better understand how secondary care works, e.g. what happens after a referral has been made.

Next meeting

May 2026, date to be confirmed.

• Maiden Newton
• Present: DW (Chair), SH (minutes) CF, CW, AJ, CK, GF (treasurer), EH (Practice manager) AM, RG.
• Apologies: CB, CR, DP.

Update – introductions and actions from previous meeting.

• Sharing 2024/25 patient survey results. Generally positive increase in patient satisfaction measures reported.
• Triage system test for potential new automated system to replace e-consult not yet fully approved by the Integrated Care Board for use in Dorset so e-consult to remain for now. 
• CQC inspection. Feeling is that it went well but still waiting written report and official rating.
• New members for PPG. AM shared recruitment posters for comment. Will send out on e-mail for comments back to practice manager email. Options for a contact point if not able to attend meetings such as an e-mail contact. Raises issues around GDPR and the timely monitoring of the email address still to be solved. 

Ammonite update

Dr Morrow now a partner.

New salaried GP starting in next 6 weeks. 

New receptionist for maiden Newton to start in next 4 weeks. 

New Advance Care Practitioner needed. 

Changes to Maiden Newton surgery finished bar painting. Feedback welcomed as to how it works. CK requested chairs for people in the queue who may find it difficult to stand. Also asked if exposed electrical wires are to be boxed, which they are set to be. 

BP machine will be in waiting room very soon along with plaque. 

Spring covid vaccine campaign under way. Clinic for 25th April not fully booked. Reported to practice team that a link on the letters sent re covid vaccine is not working. Posters advertising clinic to be placed in local shops.  

New person needed for prescription home deliveries (for around 10 people) on a Wednesday morning.  

Finance report

£1205.16 in the bank.

AGM

Suggested date 25th June at 4pm. Venue to be Toller Porcorum village hall.  Possible subject for interest is hypertension. 

AOB

CK related incident brought to her by patient whose medication was handed to her without a pharmacy bag which caused her embarrassment. RG stated this should never happen. 

CK also asked why she was sent away without any medication even though only part of the prescription was not available. Asking why the available drugs were not handed to her with an owing slip for any outstanding medication. 

RG will look into these issues. RG reported that current supply issues with a pharmacy contract now resolving. 

GF asked what to do if not happy with the triage following an e-consult. EH advised resubmission or to ring/call in to the surgery..

Next meeting. 14th July in Beaminster, venue to be confirmed

Meeting closed at 5.03 pm.