Creation of a consumer representatives committee in a multidisciplinary primary health centre. Findings, limitations and prospects

Introduction: The St Claude multidisciplinary health centre in Besancon encouraged the creation of a consumer representatives committee to promote health democracy in primary health care. This project was developed with the help of a local consumers association. This study evaluated the perception and expectations of these fifteen health users/citizens. Methods: A qualitative study based on individual semistructured interviews was carried out before initiation of the project. Results: The results highlight the motivation and sense of initiative of the participants in this innovative project, who wish to discuss a wide range of topics. These topics were compared to the health centre's health project. Four common themes emerged: maintenance at home for the elderly, management of urgent consultations in the health centre, prevention and information. These themes were used to guide the formation of this consumer group. The limitations defined by the consumers were also taken into account to ensure durability of the project. This study identified several markers: the original modality of identification of representatives, the themes shared with professionals, the proposed method of structuring activities. Discussion: These preliminary observations and orientations could be used by other organizations to facilitate the creation of a group of consumer representatives.