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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.
What do the scores mean?
Scores run from 0 to 11, grouped into three bands:
- Green / Low need (1 to 4): No significant health needs and therefore need less intervention
- Amber / Moderate need (5 to 9): Conditions that are well managed, needing occasional support
- Red / High need (10 to 11): Multiple conditions, likely needing regular monitoring
Why is this information useful?
Having this score helps in a number of ways:
- Helps healthcare services plan and coordinate support more effectively
- Supports better allocation of resources
- Encourages proactive and preventive health management
- Helps direct care to where it’s need most
- Supports clearer conversations between you and your healthcare team
How often do scores change?
Scores are reviewed monthly and can change based on things like hospital admissions, new diagnoses, or new medications.
What this means for you
For example, if you contact the surgery about a suspected urinary tract infection (UTI) and you're in the low need group, you may be referred to a local pharmacist for advice and treatment, rather than seeing a GP. This is sometimes known as "Pharmacy First."
Patients in the moderate or high need groups are less likely to be referred this way, as they often benefit more from seeing their usual GP team, who already know their health history. Those with the highest level of need may also already be supported by a dedicated team who keep a closer eye on their care.
This helps make sure GP appointments go to those who need them most, while everyone still gets the right care for their situation.
This process does not affect your diagnosis, or your entitlement to care. Your care will be guided by professional clinical judgment, your individual needs, and conversations with your healthcare team.
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.
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.
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