When you see the PIF TICK on leaflets, websites, apps or videos it shows an organisation’s health information has been gone through a professional and robust production process. To be awarded the PIF TICK an organisation must show its health information production process meets 10 criteria.
In summary the 10 criteria for trustworthy health information are:
- Information is created using a consistent and documented process
- Staff are trained and supported to produce high-quality information
- Information meets an identified consumer need
- Information is based on reliable, up-to-date evidence
- Patients are involved in the development of health information
- Information is written in plain English
- Print and digital information is easy to use and navigate
- Users can give feedback on information
- Information is promoted to make sure it reaches those who need it
- The impact of information is measured
NHS organisations, health charities and companies creating and publishing health information can apply for the PIF TICK. The PIF TICK is awarded after a thorough application and assessment process. Each of the 10 criteria has a number of requirements. Organisations applying for the scheme must meet the acceptable standard in each of the core criteria to be awarded the PIF TICK.
The PIF TICK criteria were developed in consultation with the Patient Information Forum’s 1,000 strong membership representing 300 cross sector organisations.
Consumer research found 80% of the public would look for a quality mark on health information. Evidence, plain English and trained staff were the top three criteria for quality health information identified by the public, although all criteria were supported.
CCLG was awarded the PIF TICK in December 2020. Our health information was previously certified under The Information Standard, which has now been discontinued.