Patient Need Groups

What are Patient Need Groups?

Patient Need Groups (PNGs) are a way for doctors and nurses to understand what kind of healthcare you might need. The Patient Need Groups consider information such as your previous healthcare history and how often you need to go to the doctor or hospital.

How do Patient Need Groups work?

  • Everyone is different. Some people are very healthy, some have one or two health problems, and some have many health problems
  • The Patient Need Groups system puts people into 11 different groups based on how much care and support they are likely to need
  • Your group can change if your health changes

Low need

  1. 1Non-user
  2. 2Low need Child
  3. 3Low need Adult
  4. 4Low Complexity Morbidity

Medium need

  1. 5Medium Complexity Morbidity
  2. 6Pregnancy Low Complexity
  3. 7Pregnancy High Complexity
  4. 8Dominant Psychiatric Condition
  5. 9Dominant Major Chronic Condition

High need

  1. 10Multi-Morbidity High Complexity
  2. 11Frailty

What are the Patient Need Groups?

Green groups (PNG 1–4): You are healthy or only need a little help. You might just need regular check-ups and advice on staying healthy
Amber groups (PNG 5–9): You have some health problems that are mostly under control. You might need some help from your care team to manage your health
Red groups (PNG 10–11): You have more serious or complicated health problems. You may need more help and regular support from your care team

 

Why is this important for you?

  • This tool helps your care team give you the right care for your needs
  • You can get more support if your health changes
  • It helps you and your care team work together to keep you as healthy as possible

Remember: Patient Need Groups are a tool that doctors and nurses use alongside their medical knowledge to make decisions about the best care for your health. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to ask your doctor more about this at your next appointment.

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