Patient Participation Group Newsletter

Spring/Summer 2026

A new set of initials in your NHS health record: ACG/PNG Score

This information about the Johns Hopkins scores is repeated here as it is a new system, and there was no information in the last Newsletter about how patients could find their scores. You do need to have the NHS app on your device. If you do not have the App, see the note at the end of this Newsletter. Log in and go to test results then GP ordered test results.

The initials stand for Adjusted Clinical Risk Group/Patient Needs Group score. It refers to a system devised by Johns Hopkins University to help healthcare teams understand the overall health and care needs of their patients.

Scores are automatically calculated using existing information in your medical record - for example, your health conditions, test results, prescriptions, and recent care episodes. It is not a diagnosis and does not affect your access to care or treatment; it is simply used to help the NHS plan and deliver care more effectively.

Learn more about the Johns Hopkins scores

 

Do you have the NHS app?

The NHS App is a useful free app. Search online for ‘NHS App’ to download it. After downloading, set up a login with your email, phone number (mobile or landline), NHS number, and personal details. You can then access your health records and available services.

You can order repeat prescriptions, make appointments, book vaccinations, and access NHS 111 for advice and help.

Download and learn more

 
group meeting

Diabetes support group

The dates and speakers organised for the next diabetes support group meetings are as follows:

  • Wednesday, 9th September 2026: Claire Bode from Kingsmead Leisure Centre, talking about diabetes and exercise and the free exercise referral scheme.
  • Wednesday, 9th December 2026: Claire Bode will talk about strength and balance and provide details of an exciting free 12-week exercise programme.

Meeting information

All meetings are held at Northgate Medical Practice at 12:30pm, are free and are for patients who are pre-diabetic or have diabetes.

If you would like to attend, please contact us

 

Important appointment reminders

  • Cancel Unneeded Appointments: If you no longer need your appointment, please cancel it. This helps free up slots for others.
  • Online Requests: If you secure a regular appointment after requesting an online request, please cancel the online request. This prevents wasting valuable appointment slots.
  • Blood Test Tips: We have daily appointments for blood tests. To ensure accurate results, drink plenty of fluids before your appointment.
  • Shingles Vaccination: If you're over 70 and received a text from us, please book your shingles vaccination
 

Walk and talk group

The Walk and Talk group has resumed its activities with the next walk due on Thursday, May 7th 2026, meeting at 10:30am at the Northgate Medical Practice.

The group meets at 10:30am at the surgery on the first Thursday of the month. The walk is gentle and steady and lasts about an hour and a half with, usually, a break for refreshments.

healthy walks
 
cancer

Macmillan Cancer Support - Cake Sale

We will also be having a cake sale in September to support Macmillan Cancer Support - no date fixed as yet.

 

Coming soon: A new website

We're excited to be working on a brand new website for the practice! It'll be launching soon, though we don't have an exact date just yet. Until then, please carry on using our current website as normal, nothing changes for you in the meantime.

Keep an eye on our social media pages and look out for a sign in the practice, as that's where we'll be sharing the official launch date.

Interested in joining the PPG?

Please contact Alison Clarke if you would like more information on joining the PPG.

Published: Jul 10, 2026