The Think NHS 111 First programme will be implemented across mid and south Essex this winter as part of a national initiative by NHS England.
From December, residents who think they need to visit their local emergency department will be asked to call NHS 111 first. If needed, they will be given an appointment to come to the ED and the NHS 111 team will let us know when the patient is coming. For those with life-threatening illness or serious injury, the 999 service remains in place.