MORE than 150 patients had an opportunity to speak to Sandwell’s health leaders, GPs, staff and patient representatives at a recent meeting.

The annual general meeting of NHS Sandwell and West Birmingham Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) showcased the group’s achievements during the last 12 months, including improvements made to GP services.

Some of these improvements include a £5.5 million additional investment into general practice, an introduction of seven day working, with many practices now opening extended hours and weekends and an investment in Wi-Fi which will soon to be available at all practices.

The CCG has supported a number of practices to relocate – all improving facilities for the local population.

During the meeting, patients and the public took part in the AGM’s ‘Question Time’ where they put their questions to the CCG’s panel.

Questions were asked about the role of Patient Participation Groups, how the CCG is working across boundaries and also about patients hoarding prescription medicines.

Dr Nick Harding, CCG chairman, said: “We were delighted to welcome so many local people to our Annual General Meeting.

“It was a real privilege to be able to share how we are working to improve and develop health services in Sandwell and West Birmingham.

“It was good to be able to hear valuable feedback from patients on their experiences of local services and we will consider carefully their comments and suggestions.

“Improving patient care is very much at the heart of everything we do and remains very much integral to our approach as we move forward to the challenges ahead.”