THE widening gap in health inequality across north Essex needs to be addressed, a chief medical officer has stated.

Angela Tillett, the chief medical officer for East Suffolk and North Essex Foundation Trust, said there are health inequalities across the area, with those living in the most disadvantaged areas having poorer health outcomes.

Tendring has the highest mortality rate per 100,000 from Covid-19 than anywhere else in the country.

Ms Tillett said Clacton, which is in Tendring, combines high deprivation with a high density population and has space to accommodate a community diagnostic hub.

Once built, the diagnostic hub will enable patients to get life-saving checks close to their homes outside of a hospital.

Ms Tillett said: “We recognise those living in the higher Covid-19 mortality rates have suffered a toll much worse than those in the least deprived areas.

“We have a roll to play with not only treating their medical condition, but improving their health.”

Nick Hulme, chief executive of the trust, said it is now developing a business case for capital funding for the hub.

The trust will then await feedback from NHS England.