Cookies on this website

This website would like to use analytics cookies. These send information about how our site is used to a service called Google Analytics. We use this information to improve our site.

Let us know if this is OK. We'll also use a cookie to save your choice. You can read more about how Google uses cookies.

Your John Hopkins Clinical Groups Score (Segmentation)

You may have noticed a new test result in your NHS App called “John Hopkins adjusted clinical groups system score”. This score is part of a process called segmentation, which helps us group patients based on their health needs. By doing this, we can ensure we provide the right care at the right time and make services more personalised for you.

We’ve included some frequently asked questions below which explains more about this process.

What is Segmentation?

Segmentation means grouping patients according to their health and wellbeing needs. This helps us:

Understand your individual health requirements.
Offer personalised care.
Plan services to keep you healthier for longer.

What is the John Hopkins Adjusted Clinical Groups (ACG) System?

The ACG system has been used by the NHS since 2009. It looks at:

The number of long-term conditions you have.
How severe those conditions are.
How much support you might need.

Your score changes as your health changes.

What Do the Groups Mean?

Patients are placed into 11 categories, grouped into three main levels:

Green – Low Need (PNG 1–4)
Few or no health issues. Focus is on prevention.
Amber – Moderate Need (PNG 5–9)
One or more stable conditions. Occasional support may be needed.
Red – High Need (PNG 10–11)
Several conditions needing regular monitoring and coordinated care.

How Do We Do This?

Data Collection – We use information from your GP records, hospital visits, and public health services.
Grouping – The John Hopkins system places patients into segments based on complexity.
Action – We use this to plan care, such as:
- Longer appointments for complex patients.
- Inviting you for check-ups.
- Adding specialist nurses where needed.

How Is Your Data Protected?

Your privacy is very important. To access the Thames Valley Sharing (TVS) Record, organisations must:

Meet strict NHS standards.
Sign confidentiality agreements.
Use role-based access (only staff who need it can see your data).
Complete audits and staff training.
Inform patients through privacy notices.