Table 3 Mechanisms of Public and Patient and Involvement (PPI)

[28]

Consultation

Focus group

The overarching vision of the HONU Project is to create a sustained culture of health in New Ulm, with programs and initiatives for successful replication in other rural communities. The commitment and engagement of the entire community drive the success of all the project’s activities.

Yes

Collaboration

Steering committee

[27]

Consultation

Questionnaire

The questionnaire sought their views on the value and acceptability of placing medical students in their communities and also sought their suggestions for making the placements more enjoyable for students.

Yes.

(Telephone conference).

[26]

Consultation

Focus group

To design effective interventions for rural caregivers, it is important to consider the unique needs of this population. To design an intervention for likely use, one should consider several aspects of the prior conditions, including felt needs or perceived problems, the degree of innovation and the norms of the social system.

No (survey item)

Internet is expensive and impersonal, but could be used to augment programs. Telephone is preferred over Internet, but could be also impersonal and stressful. Phone networks may act as a supplement to support group.

[25]

Consultation

Self-administered mail survey

Not reported

No (survey item)

Internet access is limited in rural areas and is not the preferred tool. Because of the ubiquitous nature of telephone access, it is unfortunate that rural survivors prefer telephone delivery.

[24]

Consultation

Weblogs (virtual community consultation)

Community perspectives are important for a number of reasons: to evaluate the acceptability, social impact and potential uptake of a technology; to expand our understanding of the ethical significance of an intervention

Indirectly. Alternative source of information for review with a broader focus on community perspectives. Cannot replace targeted community consultation.