Patient empowerment: a general practice perspective.

Patient empowerment is a frequently promoted aim for patients but is rarely put in to clinical practice. This paper describes the basic principles behind a club enabling treatment and prevention of leg ulceration in the community. These principles include patient ownership of the club, community involvement and a non-medical environment. The practical issues involved in setting up a Leg Club(R) are described in detail including engagement of healthcare professionals, community volunteers and appropriate transport.