Get the right care and support 

Self-care means looking after your health and managing minor illnesses or injuries at home when it is safe to do so.

Your local pharmacy: your first point of contact for everyday health advice, treatment, and support.

NHS 111 provides urgent medical advice 24/7 when it is not a life-threatening emergency and directs you to the right local service.

This page explains how GP services work in Essex, how to book appointments, and where to find further support

Accident and Emergency (A&E) departments provide urgent treatment for serious and life-threatening conditions. You should only use A&E for medical emergencies where immediate hospital care is needed.

Urgent Treatment Centres (UTCs) and Minor Injuries Units provide same-day care for illnesses and injuries that need quick attention but are not life-threatening.

NHS dental services help you look after your teeth and gums, prevent dental disease and access urgent treatment when needed.

NHS eye care services help protect your vision, detect problems early, and provide specialist treatment when needed, usually starting with your local optician.

Sexual health services in Essex provide free, confidential STI testing, contraception, HIV prevention and advice. Support is available online, in clinics and in your local area.

Maternity and neonatal services support you and your baby during pregnancy, birth, and early days after delivery, with personalised, safe, high-quality care.

Information about patient transport services, including eligibility, how to book and where to get further support.

The Medical Examiners Service provides an independent review of the cause of death and the care a person received before they died.

Information about mental health, learning disability and autism support, including local services, advice and how to get help.

Information about how to get an autism (ASD) or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) assessment, treatment and medication.

Make sure you know what to do if you need medical help during a bank holiday.

If you care for a family member, friend or neighbour who could not manage without support, you may be an unpaid carer. Find information about carers assessments, financial support, wellbeing services and local help available across Essex, Southend and Thurrock.