Browsing: Health & Wellbeing

NHS Essex Integrated Care Board has officially launched, bringing together NHS planning and commissioning across the county with a focus on prevention, community-based care, reducing inequalities and improving health outcomes.

The three Integrated Care Boards responsible for commissioning NHS services across Essex will hold a joint meeting on Thursday 19 March 2026 as part of the transition towards a single Essex Integrated Care Board.

Measles cases are rising in North London and may soon reach Essex, Southend and Thurrock. Parents and carers are urged to check their child’s MMR vaccination status and arrange any missed doses as soon as possible to ensure protection.

Over £360,000 has been secured to upgrade and convert existing space in eight GP surgeries across mid and south Essex, creating 15 new clinical and consulting rooms and enabling up to 60,000 additional appointments per year.

The city’s mobile breast screening unit has moved from Warrior Square to the Civic Centre to improve access, privacy and attendance, with health leaders urging women not to delay potentially life-saving screenings.

People across Essex are being invited to share their views on community mental health services as the NHS reviews how support is delivered, with plans to move towards a single county-wide service offering consistent care and improved access.

Doctors in Essex are urging people to attend NHS cancer screening appointments as the National Cancer Plan 2026 is published, highlighting the life-saving importance of early diagnosis and improved access to screening.

Emergency departments remain open for life-threatening conditions, while many people can be treated sooner through alternatives such as NHS 111, pharmacies and GP services, which are open as usual after the holiday period.

Local health leaders are encouraging people to check their eligibility for routine cancer screening following a powerful message from His Majesty The King, highlighting how early diagnosis can save lives and improve outcomes.

Residents are being urged to continue coming forward for NHS care during five days of strike action by resident doctors, with life-saving services maintained and GP practices remaining open as flu season places additional pressure on hospitals.