South Woodham people are being urged to voice their Health care priorities.

This week the Maldon and South Chelmsford Primary Care Group issued an appeal to people to tell them what they need for the town.

The appeal follows a public meeting last month which was attended by 250 people.

Mike Harrison, chief executive of the care group said: "We want to ask even more people what their priorities are.

"Do they want more consultants out there? Do they want more blood taking services? If we do get the ambulance station what facilities would they like to see there and should it be extended outside the NHS facilities to things such as acupuncture and alternative therapies?

"The Primary Care Group will then go back to the Healthcare 2000 Group to discuss what we can do to improve things locally with the resources we have got," added Mr Harrison.

Following the public meeting a petition with more than 3,000 signatures highlighting the health needs of South Woodham was presented to Essex County Council and a copy sent to the Primary Care Group.

Mr Harrison added negotiations are still continuing with Essex Ambulance Service over acquiring the station if it is sold.

Anyone who would like to send their views on South Woodham's health needs can call the PCG on 01621 875336 or write to Mr Harrison, Primary Care Group at St Peter's Hospital, Spital Road, Maldon CM9 6EG or e-mail feedback@maldon-pcg.nhs.uk

Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.