Involving patients and the public in the NHS: the role of the Scottish Health Council

2006 Conference

This presentation will describe the process of involving patients and the public in the assessment of NHS Board’s patient focus and public involvement activities across Scotland by the Scottish Health Council. This presentation will also explore how the Scottish Health Council promotes and develops good practice in the involvement of patients and the public.

The Scottish Health Council has been established to promote and assess improvements in the quality and extent of patient focus and public involvement in the NHS in Scotland, including consultation around significant service change. The Scottish Health Council undertakes robust independent and evidence based verification of NHS Boards’ patient focus and public involvement activities. Patients, public, carers and NHS staff are invited to participate in the process of verification using a range of qualitative research methods (including questionnaires and interviews) and analysis.

Participants will gain an insight into the unique way in which patients, carers, the public and NHS staff are engaged in the work of the Scottish Heath Council.

Discussion Points

What role can patients, carers and the public have in assessing NHS Boards’ patient focus and public involvement activities? How best can patients and the public be involved?

What lessons can we share?