What to change
State the checklist's purpose at the start and explain any action the practice actually requires. Keep personal note-taking distinct from forms that collect information for the team.
A worked example
Illustrative example
A visit-planning sheet helps patients check transport, confirmation details and practical paperwork. It says they can keep it for themselves and directs unresolved booking questions to reception.
Put it into practice
Leave enough room for someone to use it on paper if that is an intended format. Ask a new reader to describe what they would do with the sheet; its value is in useful preparation, not simply in having boxes to tick.
If the checklist includes a date or appointment name, leave a clear place for it. This helps someone avoid using the sheet for another visit with different instructions.
What to agree before publishing
Decide whether each checklist item is a reminder, a task the patient completes or something the practice must confirm. Those distinctions should be visible without a lengthy explanation. For example, having a document ready differs from the team accepting it. Ask a reader to use the sheet for a fictional visit and describe what a completed tick means. The checklist should help them organise preparation without implying that ticking every box settles requirements that need a separate conversation.
How to check the result
A patient can use the sheet confidently without sending personal notes back unnecessarily.
A mistake to avoid
Do not add a return instruction merely to create engagement when the practice has no day-to-day need to receive the checklist.
Turn reading into a next step
Your action checklist
Work through these checks with your team or supplier. Tick the ones you have resolved and leave unknowns open.
Record what you know, what is still missing and the answer you need from your team or supplier.
Use project decisions only, without personal, patient or confidential details. Entries stay in this page and are not submitted to Kay & Co. Copy or download before leaving; this page does not save your notes.
Further reading
These sources provide background for the topic. The practice examples and checklist are illustrative planning suggestions from Kay & Co.
Related guides
Need help with this?
Tell us what is getting in the way. Kay & Co. can help you understand the options and turn the next step into something that works for your practice.
Explore websites & patient experience services or discuss your project.
Try the free Healthcare Digital Planner to find your starting priority.