Providing diabetes care in the community
Our specialist community multidisciplinary team (MDT) clinics are held regularly in Clacton, Colchester and Harwich.
Our team includes consultant diabetologists, diabetes specialist practitioners (dietitians, nurses and podiatrists), healthcare assistants, diabetes technicians and administrative staff. Together, we provide expert support to help people manage their diabetes and improve their health and wellbeing.
- People with type 1 diabetes
need a one-off referral to ESNEFT community diabetes (North East Essex Diabetes Service – NEEDS) from their GP practice or the Inpatient diabetes team. Once referred, you will have lifelong open access to the service and can contact us directly at any time for advice and support. - People with type 2 diabetes
will need a referral from their GP practice each time they require specialist support. If you have previously been discharged from the service, a new referral will be assessed against our referral criteria.
Most type 2 diabetes care can be managed within primary care, and ESNEFT community diabetes (North East Essex Diabetes Service – NEEDS) accepts referrals for people with more complex type 2 diabetes. However, our education programmes are available to all people with type 2 diabetes.
If you need any further information you can contact our helpline: 01206 833 003
What to bring to your clinic appointment
- your blood glucose monitor (BGM) or your BGM diary
- make a note of your blood pressure measurements in the 2-3 days leading up to your appointment
- a list of your current medications
- any questions that you would like to ask our team
Clinic locations
Colchester Primary Care Centre, 2nd Floor
Turner Road
Colchester
CO4 5JR
Other clinic locations
Colchester General Hospital – Turner Rd, Colchester CO4 5JL.
Nearest bus stop is Turner Road (0.1 miles, 3-minute walk).
Clacton Hospital – Tower Road, Clacton-on-Sea CO15 41LH
Nearest bus stop is outside the main hospital.
Harwich Hospital – 419 Main Road, Harwich CO12 4EX
Nearest bus stop is on the Main Road outside the hospital.
Transport
Clacton: Hospital Hopper to Colchester – please call 01255 436 962
Harwich: Hospital Hopper to Colchester – please call 01255 552 010
Tendring District residents: Dial-A-Ride (bespoke, accessible, door to door) – please call 01255 436 962
Patients with severe mobility issues can apply for ambulance transport – please call 01245 951 205 to arrange this
Assistance with travel costs to attend your appointment
Please call the Department of Health customer enquiry line on 03003 301 343.
This service is available if you are on a low income and may help you claim back travel costs for your appointment to our service.
If you are already receiving a form support or credit, you may already be entitled to full help with health costs. Please contact the customer enquiry number for further information.
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