New NHS Guidance: You and Your General Practice
NHS England has published a new guide called “You and Your General Practice (YYGP)”, which explains what you can expect from your GP practice and how you can make the most of NHS services.
The guide covers:
- How and when you can contact your GP
- What to do if the practice is closed or in an emergency
- Your rights when registering with a GP
- Support available if you need extra help
- How you can give feedback or raise concerns
The document is available in English and in several other languages.
Read the full guide here
Update on tirzepatide for weight management
On 23rd June 2025, it was announced that people living with obesity will be able to begin accessing tirzepatide (Mounjaro®) for weight loss purposes in primary care settings. However, the national roll out does not mean all people will be able to get a prescription for tirzepatide (Mounjaro®) on this day.
Weight management services are locally commissioned at an Integrated Care Board (ICB) level. In mid and south Essex, access to tirzepatide will initially be through specialist weight management services only. Access to tirzepatide (Mounjaro®) through primary care is not expected to start in mid and south Essex until later in 2025.
NHS Mid and South Essex ICB has provided information on tirzepatide on its website - Visit the website for more information.
Targeted Lung Health Checks
Patients aged from 55 to 74 who smoke or used to smoke have a higher risk of developing lung cancer and are currently being invited for a targeted lung health check to help find problems early when treatment could be simpler and more effective. If you have any questions please contact the Health Check team on 0300 300 1557 or email: targetedlunghealth@nelft.nhs.uk
Child Health
Please see the new Child Health page (found within Further Information) with links to advice sheets for common concerns
Sedative Prescribing for Fear of Flying (Diazepam)
Please see the attached letter Practice Policy