PATIENTS of a Highwoods surgery are being encouraged to volunteer for a new group which aims to measure the effect of proposed NHS changes.

A patient participation group has been set up at Bluebell Surgery, in Jack Andrews Drive.
The group has already begun recruiting and there are eight positions left.

No special qualifications are needed but the surgery would like to recruit professionals, mums and elderly people to help monitor the changes, which will see GPs become more responsible for providing patients’ care.

Dr Shane Gordon works at the surgery and leads North East Essex Clinical Commissioning Group, which plans care for patients in Colchester and Tendring.

He said: “We need more patients to join the group, either to attend meetings, or to be part of a wider reference group.

“I am delighted that so many people are now working with us through practice participation groups or through our health forum.”

To join the group, call 01206 852444.