Enter and view: Porter Brook Medical Centre

Healthwatch Sheffield gather information on people’s experiences of health and social care services and there are times when it is appropriate for Healthwatch Sheffield to see and hear for themselves how services are being delivered: these visits are called ‘Enter and View’, they are not inspections.

Healthwatch Sheffield visited Porter Brook Medical Centre on 02/05/2015.

The summary of findings highlighted areas in relation to patient feedback, staff feedback and observation. These findings informed they found a professionally organised service, with staff well linked in with strategic developments and organisational structures within the NHS and the city. There is an active PPG, who influence the delivery of the service. Both staff and patients were predominantly positive about the practice. The current range of services and staff is good but maintenance may be a challenge in the light of current funding reductions. The population mix of registered patients is unusual, with a large percentage of young adults. The practice has had some success in reducing DNAs via the use of appointments text prompts and the availability of a variety of methods of cancelling appointments that are no longer suitable or required.

The recommendations within the report state they continue the positive work with the PPG and the wider considered response to patient comments. Review, in partnership with the PPG, pharmacy processes with a focus on ensuring all patients understand what their medications are for and how they should be taken. Monitor the impact of the community support worker and consider if additional links could be made with the local community and community organisations. Share widely with GP peers the success in reducing DNAs.