How much does the PIF TICK cost?
The PIF TICK fee is annual. The cost is based on the sector, income and size of the applying organisation or individual. This allows equal access to the scheme for individuals, small charities and large private organisations.
The PIF TICK operates on a not-for-profit basis. Fees cover the cost of operating the scheme.
How can the PIF TICK be used?
The PIF TICK logo can be used on any type of health information produced using the assessed creation process. This applies to media including blogs, videos, podcasts, printed or digital leaflets.
The PIF TICK cannot be used on promotional materials, but can be placed on health information produced with the support of a sponsor that is independent from the creation process.
Who will carry out PIF TICK assessments?
There are five people who will carry out PIF TICK assessments: Dan Wills, Susan Smith, Virginia Chachati, Marie Clegg, and Claire Utting.
Dan Wills is the PIF TICK quality mark manager who oversees all PIF TICK assessments.
Assessors are trained by Dan Wills, and assessments are quality-assured by a second assessor.
How long does it take to complete a PIF TICK assessment?
It takes around three months to complete your first PIF TICK assessment. Your next PIF TICK assessment is quicker to complete.
You will work with your dedicated assessor to complete your PIF TICK assessment and meet all 10 criteria to the best of your ability. You can email or request a video call with your assessor at any time.
To support your PIF TICK assessment, you will have access to:
- Online resources, including posters, videos, and how-to guides
- Recorded and live webinars
- Training workshops
How often do you get a PIF TICK assessment?
You will get a PIF TICK assessment every year. This assessment might look different as we will be looking at both your health information creation process and resources you have created.
You may be selected for an Information Assessment after two years. Information Assessments are an opportunity to discuss your experience of using a PIF TICK accredited health information creation process.
Does the public know about the PIF TICK?
We have a dedicated public-facing PIF TICK website.
PIF consumer research found 8 out of 10 people would look for a quality mark on health information.
The PIF TICK website signposts the public and healthcare professionals to accredited members.
The PIF TICK has also featured in national and local newspapers, and is widely promoted by its membership including large organisations and individuals with an international following.
We encourage PIF TICK accredited members to use the PIF TICK logo as widely as possible.
Who else assesses the quality of health information?
The Patient Information Forum (PIF) is the only organisation that independently assesses print and digital health information.
The NHS, Academy of Medical Royal Colleges (AoMRC), and YouTube Health have adopted PIF TICK criteria as the standard for creating high quality health information. But they do not offer assessments.