Finding a patient support group

There are many advantages in referring patients to self-help groups as part of medical care. These groups can be face-to-face and on-line. Some of the questions patients should ask when choosing a patient support organisation include whether there is provision of social and emotional support, what helping mechanisms are offered, and whether it is a disease- or treatment-specific group. It is useful to enquire about the experiences and perceptions of others and the appropriateness of the information provided about the disease or disability. Questions should be asked about fees and charges, sources of funding and whether the organisation is democratically accountable.