A new way of providing healthcare is being piloted in Tendring.

A six-strong team is operating an holistic approach over a targeted area - and it could become the model for the whole district.

The team, set up by Tendring Primary Care Trust and led by health visitor Anne Poonian, currently covers Little Clacton, Thorpe, Walton, Frinton, Kirby and Great Holland.

Residents benefit from 11 baby clinics a month, a weekly smoking cessation clinic, a weekly eating clinic and a cardiac rehabilitation support service for anyone who has suffered a heart attack.

And parents unable to access the baby clinic but need advice or support can call three telephone numbers.

A home visit can then be arranged depending on the type of inquiry made.

All children between six and nine months are offered a hearing and development check under the scheme, while all those between 18 months and two-years-old are offered further development checks.

Published Monday January 12, 2004

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