The PIF TICK

The PIF TICK is the UK-wide Quality Mark for Health Information.

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:

1. Information is created using a consistent and documented process
2. Staff are trained and supported to produce high-quality information
3. Information meets an identified consumer need
4. Information is based on reliable, up-to-date evidence
5. Patients are involved in the development of health information
6. Information is written in plain English
7. Print and digital information is easy to use and navigate
8. Users can give feedback on information
9. Information is promoted to make sure it reaches those who need it
10. 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.

50 organisations have joined the scheme which opened in May 2020 following a six month pilot. 12 major health organisations tested the criteria and assessment process in a pilot scheme which was funded by Bupa. All 12 went on to join the scheme.

An evaluation of the pilot scheme found pilot organisations saw equal value in mapping their processes against the criteria, the assessment visit itself and the resulting action plan.

• 100% felt the scheme helped maintain or improve internal processes and procedures
• 90% made changes to their internal processes as a result of the assessment
• 100% would recommend the scheme to other organisations
• 100% described the assessment as informative
• 90% described the assessment as both robust and supportive.

Based on the success of the pilot the scheme was opened to new members in May 2020.

The PIF TICK is open to NHS, charity, voluntary and private sector organisations creating and publishing health information. The flexible criteria were tested in cross-sector organisations, large and small.

The application and assessment process

• Apply
• Pre-consultation
• Pay Fee
• Pre Assessment Paperwork
• Assessment
• Action Plan
• Action Plan Implementation
• Sign off and certification
• PIF TICK Awarded for 12 months
• Reassessment and renewal of membership

Fee structure

Fees are annual and are based on the sector and size of the organisation. The scheme is operated on a not-for-profit basis. The fees cover the cost of operating the scheme and are staged based on sector and revenue to allow equal access to the scheme for small charities and large corporate organisations.

Fee ranges

• Charitable organisation £500-£3000 plus VAT
• NHS Trusts and centrally funded organisations £1000 plus VAT
• Commercial organisations from £500 plus VAT upwards

Complete the form in the link below to find out the fee that will apply to your organisation.

PIF TICK application form