HEALTH bosses have rated the quality of diabetes care in north east Essex as outstanding.

An inspection by NHS England compared the performance of the north east Essex Clinical Care Commissioning Group to other health authorities.

The amount of treatment targets met for people with diabetes was key in the awarding of the rating.

Around 48,000 people have the condition in north east Essex and Suffolk which can result in blindness, kidney failure, stroke and loss of limbs.

Adele Holcombe, who manages the North East Essex Diabetes Service service in Colchester, said: "This is a fantastic achievement and we’re delighted North East Essex CCG has been recognised for providing high quality services for people with diabetes.

"Our team is committed to providing high standards of care for all patients and our aim is to provide more care across a range of community settings, reducing the need for hospital visits and providing services closer to home.

"Following this assessment it is evident this is being achieved.

"While we are pleased, we will want to continue to ensure our service continues to evolve in order to best support our patients.”

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For more information visit www.nhs.uk.