The Patients Accelerating Change Project: does it make any difference?

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this survey was to evaluate the impact and experience of the Patients Accelerating Change (PAC) project from the perspective of 28 people who were closely involved in the project.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected by telephone interview with 28 individuals from nine acute NHS Trusts which piloted the PAC project.

Findings

PAC was seen to make a positive impact in terms of improving communication and information, helping patients feel valued and listened to, providing real direction as a result of listening to feedback from patients, and improving processes and procedures in the participating Trusts. The PAC project raised the profile of the Patient and Public Involvement Agenda within the NHS Trust organisations that participated in the project.

Research limitations/implications

The PAC project was still in its infancy at the time of data collection for this study, and over half of the sample was likely to have been composed of enthusiasts for the process: this may have contributed to a positive bias.

Practical implications

The PAC project works on a “staggered approach” in terms of realising short‐ and then long‐term improvements in the patient's experience. By the end of the project it was expected that some “quick wins” could be identified and the PAC organisers acknowledged that more time is needed in order to realise longer‐term improvements.

Originality/value

This survey provides useful information to patients and staff at NHS Trusts who may be considering how best to involve patients in planning and improving the quality of care that they receive.

Citation

Sweeney, G., O'Hagan, B., Squire, S. and Powell, C. (2005), "The Patients Accelerating Change Project: does it make any difference?", Clinical Governance: An International Journal, Vol. 10 No. 1, pp. 72-83. https://doi.org/10.1108/14777270510579323