About the PIF TICK
Find out what it takes to gain the PIF TICK – the independent trust mark for health information.
With so much health information out there, it can be hard to know what to trust. When you see the PIF TICK you know information is trusted, evidence-based and easy to use and understand. The PIF TICK is run by the Patient Information Forum (PIF) – a UK-based charity.
To gain the PIF TICK, creators must show their information production process meet 10 key steps. This is assessed by the Patient Information Forum (PIF) – a UK-based charity. People told us they wanted an easy way to recognise information which is:
Evidence based
Written in plain language
Produced by trained staff
An Ipsos survey found 2 in 3 UK adults think independent verification of health information would increase trust. Having access to trusted health information helps you:
Be more involved in your care
Get the right support
Manage your health
Below are answers to some of the most common questions about the PIF TICK. Unable to find what you are looking for? Use the contact us page.
Want to apply for the PIF TICK? Find out more via the main PIF site here.
How are organisations assessed for the PIF TICK?
Anyone wanting to join the PIF TICK scheme must show they are meeting the 10 key steps. During an annual assessment, members must show they meet these steps for trusted information:
- Application and criteria mapping – Information producers work with the support of PIF to review and update their processes where required.
- Guidance and support – PIF supports members to improve their processes.
- Assessment and action plan – PIF conducts an initial PIF TICK assessment and provides an action plan for improvement.
- Certification – Once the action plan has been implemented, members can start to use the PIF TICK logo.
- Review – After 9 months PIF starts the assessment and support process again, this time looking for areas of change or improvement.
What are the 10 key steps?
Anyone wanting to join the PIF TICK scheme must show they are meeting the 10 key steps. During an annual assessment, members must show they meet these steps for trusted information:
- 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 literacy, digital inclusion, language and accessibility needs of the audience.
- Transparency and legal: Information complies with GDPR, promotion of medicines and other regulations.
- 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.
What is PIF?
PIF is a charitable organisation for people working in health information. We represent more than 300 members. They include NHS Trusts, charities, private companies, freelance writers and academics. We offer expert advice to promote the creation of trusted, clear, evidence-based health information. In 2020, we set up the PIF TICK scheme to help people find reliable health information. Find out more about PIF here.
Who can join the PIF TICK?
The PIF TICK is open to NHS, charity, voluntary, private sector organisations and individual health content creators creating and publishing health information.
Why was the PIF TICK created?
The PIF TICK was started to help you easily recognise trusted health information. Consumer research found 8 in 10 people would look for a quality mark for health information. Ipsos research found 2 in 3 UK adults say independent verification of health information would increase trust.
How is the PIF TICK funded?
The scheme runs on a not-for-profit basis. It has no central funding. Membership fees cover costs. These are staged to allow equal access for small charities and large organisations.
What if I am unhappy with information that has the PIF TICK?
First, you should contact the member who produced the information. If you are unhappy with the response, we can help. You can see our full feedback policy here.
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Find out more about PIF
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