The PIF TICK is the UK-wide Quality Mark for Health Information
Having the PIF TICK on leaflets, websites, videos or apps shows an organisation’s health information has been 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:
- Systems: Information is created using a consistent and documented process.
- Training: Staff receive ongoing training and support.
- Need: Resources meet a genuine need.
- Evidence: Information is based on reliable, up-to-date evidence which is communicated clearly.
- Involving users: Users are involved in the development of information.
- Health inequalities: Information is written to meet health and digital literacy, language and accessibility needs of the target audience.
- Content and design: Information is clearly communicated, easy to access and navigate.
- Feedback: There is a clear process for users to provide feedback.
- Disseminating: Information is promoted to maximise reach.
- Impact: 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 was 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.
We have created a website to provide guidance and support to members of the public who are looking for trusted health information and to highlight organisations accredited with the PIF TICK. You can find the website here: www.piftick.org.uk