What is the Readers Panel?
The Readers’ Panel is a group of people who have volunteered to review all
Patient Information, that staff at
NHS Heywood Middleton & Rochdale produce for their patients.
Why does NHS Heywood Middleton & Rochdale need a Readers Panel?
We need people to volunteer to be part of the panel because we are committed to involving our patients and public in our decision making processes.
It is important we know that the information we produce has been through a rigorous checking process where input is received both by our Clinical staff and our patients/public.
How does the Readers Panel work?
Members of the panel are sent draft leaflets to review and comment on, they are asked to consider the following:
- Are the messages concise and clear?
- Is it in easy to read, plain English?
- Is it suitable for its target audience?
All members are provided with a form so that they can provide comments and suggestions about the leaflet and presentation of the leaflet.
How long do I have to read and comment on the leaflets?
There is a ten working day timescale for the review of all information. Only when a piece of information is needed urgently may some members be asked to review within a 3 day timescale.
How do the leaflets get to me?
The leaflets can be sent to by whichever method you prefer, whether that be post or e-mail.
Will I have to pay to return my comments?
No, if you have had the leaflets posted out to you, you will also be sent a pre paid envelope to send them back in.
Do I have to read and comment on all leaflets sent to me?
Its entirely up to you how many leaflets you choose to review, if you are on holiday, fall ill, or simply would like a break from reviewing information
its completely your choice! You make the decision about how much time you want to volunteer.
How do I give my comments?
Your comments can be recorded on the form that accompanies all leaflets, this can either be returned to us by e-mail or in the pre paid envelope supplied.
What happens to the leaflets once I have commented on them?
Once all suggestions have been received, they are given to the author for inclusion within the leaflet, a final draft of the leaflet is then sent to the Patient Information Assurance Group for final sign off. There are opportunities for members of the Readers Panel to become members of the group.
Will I receive any training?
Yes, all members of the readers panel receive full training to ensure that they are fully prepared and ready to begin reviewing our information.
How will I know what use you make of my comments?
You can see how we use your comments to improve our patient information by requesting a copy of a finalised leaflet to be sent to you.
Leaflets that have gone through the Readers’ Panel will carry the following marker.
If after reading this you are interested in becoming a member of the Readers Panel then please contact the Patient and Public Involvement Team:
