Patients in Great Clacton and Holland-on-Sea are being given an chance to take part in a decision over the future of GP practices.

Tendring Primary Care Trust (PCT) is looking to bring together four existing surgeries into one purpose-built healthcare centre in Kennedy Way, off Valley Road in Clacton.

However, the scheme has been put out to an extended period of consultation.

Now, five places are up for grabs on a panel for an option appraisal day to consider a number of alternatives.

It will be made up of healthcare professionals, councillors, representatives of residents' associations, the voluntary sector, the Community Health Council and public representatives who will decide on the preferred option.

Tom Stewart, Tendring PCT's director of health improvement, said a number of constructive points were made by members of the public during the consultation.

"What we are now doing is drawing up a list of options which will be discussed on May 21 and from that meeting will come the preferred option."

He said the aim is to enable an expansion of the range of services provided in primary care, including mental health services, district nursing/ health visiting, podiatry and minor operations.

The surgeries involved are The Surgery in Epping Close, Dr Gbla and Partners in North Road, the Grove Lodge Surgery in Queensway and Dr Stewart's practice in Frinton Road, Holland-on-Sea.

Dr Guille, whose surgery was originally included, has dropped out of the plans.

Anyone interested in getting on the panel should write to Sharon Brooks, Tendring PCT, Carnarvon House, Carnarvon Road, Clacton, CO15 6QD, stating why they should be selected and their views.

Published Wednesday, April 16, 2003

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