St James and St Osyth Surgery

01/05/2026

30/04/2026

30/04/2026

📲 It's now possible for patients at all NHS hospital trusts in England to check referrals and appointments through the NHS App.

✅ Many patients can also use the app to reschedule or cancel appointments, helping cut the number of missed appointments.

More: https://www.england.nhs.uk/2026/04/hospital-patients-can-now-check-appointments-in-the-nhs-app/

25/04/2026

Don’t ignore the symptoms of bowel cancer

Changes in your poo, blood in your poo, tummy pain or bloating, feeling very tired, or losing weight without trying could be signs of bowel cancer.

These symptoms are often caused by other conditions — but it’s important to get them checked.

If you’ve had symptoms for 3 weeks or more, contact your GP surgery.

Getting checked early can make a difference.

More info: https://orlo.uk/Rmyw7

19/04/2026

If you’re 50 to 74, the NHS will send you a Bowel Cancer testing kit.

Catching bowel cancer early reduces your chances of getting seriously ill from it.

Don’t leave it in the back of a drawer - return it today.

Find out more: https://orlo.uk/m2Trt

16/04/2026

16/04/2026

Cervical screening (previously called a smear test) helps prevent cervical cancer by finding problems early. It saves around 5,000 lives every year.

If you are aged 25 to 64 and have a cervix, you will be invited for screening every 5 years – by letter, text message or through the NHS App.

We want to hear about your experience. Your feedback will help improve cervical screening services in Essex and make them more accessible and comfortable for everyone.

The survey takes 8–10 minutes to complete and is completely anonymous. See link in first comment.

Please consider taking part and sharing with friends and family who may also wish to contribute.

🗓️ Survey closes: 23 April 2026

16/04/2026

We invite you to join us in Colchester for the first full meeting of the Essex Integrated Care Board, held in public.

This is an opportunity to see how decisions are made, hear about our priorities, and understand how we are working to improve services for people across Essex.

📅 23 April 2026

⏰ 2pm – 3:30pm

📍 Moot Hall, Colchester

If you would like to attend in person, please register via our website. https://www.essex.icb.nhs.uk/events/essex-icb-board-meeting/

If you are unable to join us on the day, you can watch the meeting live on our YouTube channel.

16/04/2026

Sudden testicular pain? Don’t wait – act immediately

Testicular torsion is a medical emergency that needs urgent treatment. In Essex, more than one boy or young man loses a testicle every month because they didn’t get to A&E in time.

It can feel uncomfortable to talk about, but acting quickly can prevent permanent damage.

Know the signs:
- Sudden, severe pain in one testicle
- Swelling or redness
- Nausea or vomiting
- A testicle sitting higher than normal

What to do:
➡️ Go straight to A&E
➡️ Call 999 if you can’t get there quickly

Treatment within 6 hours gives the best chance of saving the testicle. Waiting can lead to surgery or permanent loss.

Parents and carers: if a young person mentions pain like this, take it seriously and act fast.

➡️ Read Dr James Hickling’s blog for more information and advice. See link in comments.

Don’t wait. Don’t feel embarrassed. This is urgent.

14/04/2026

Covid-19 spring booster vaccinations start 13 April

If you are eligible, now is the time to top up your protection.

The spring booster is available for those most at risk of serious illness, including:
• People aged 75 and over
• Care home residents
• Anyone aged 6 months and over with a weakened immune system

Protection from previous vaccinations can reduce over time. Getting your booster helps reduce the risk of serious illness and hospitalisation.

You may be contacted by the NHS, or you can book your appointment via the NHS App, online or by calling 119.

Vaccines are available through GP practices, with some pharmacies also offering walk-in appointments.

Find a location near you: https://www.essex.icb.nhs.uk/news/covid-19-spring-booster-campaign-launches-across-essex/

As we head into the warmer months, make sure you are protected so you can enjoy time with family and friends.

11/04/2026

Tell us what would help you attend

Cervical screening can help prevent cervical cancer.

We want to hear from you—whether you go, are putting it off, or have not been yet.

It only takes a few minutes and will help us improve NHS services.

Take the survey: https://orlo.uk/cervical_screening_survey_UQaZZ