GPs and their practice staff acrossColchesterand Tendring will be attending a half-day professional development session next week.

Richard Gray, on behalf of the North East Essex Clinical Commissioning Group (NEECCG), said: “It is very important that GPs and their staff stay up to date with the latest developments in service changes and training. These training days are encouraged by the Department of Health and we have funding made available to provide cover for these sessions to minimise inconvenience to patients.”

Among the topics being discussed will be updates on changes within the NEECCG, new dermatology and cardiology community services and end of life care.

Surgeries across Colchester and Tendring, with the exception of the North Colchester Healthcare Centre inTurner Road,ColchesterandFronks Road, Dovercourt, will close during the afternoon on Wednesday February 29.

The local out-of-hours provider, Harmoni, will be providing cover from 12.30-6.30 pm for those surgeries closing. Anyone needing assistance during these times should not attend their surgery but should contact Harmoni on 0845 602 5215. Harmoni won’t be able to provide test results or book routine appointments.

ends