DIAL does not deal directly with any questions requiring medical knowledge, as our volunteers are not qualified to give out this kind of information. We do, however, have details of various medical services that are available throughout the area and other organisations, both voluntary and statutory, which will be able to help you with your enquiry.
DIAL does provide information on preventative health measures, which can help to improve a person’s quality of life. Just give us a ring and we will put you in touch with the appropriate people who will be able to give the help and advice that you need.
For complaints against your GP firstly contact the practice manager and if you are still not satisfied then contact your local Clinical Commissioning Group (ask GP for details) the Patient Advice & Liason Service (PALS) for Basildon & Thurrock on 01268 394440 for Southend 01702 385333.
For complaints against NHS contact NHS England on 0300 311 2233 or visit the website www.england.contactus@nhs.net Alternatively contact POhWER on 0300 456 2370, email pohwer@pohwer.net or visit the website www.pohwer.net.
Each area also operate a HealthWatch service. Please contact the one in your area for help with any medical related questions.
For toenail cutting service in your own home contact Basildon Community Transport Service on 01268 294334. Age UK Essex also operate a toenail cutting service. They can be contacted on 01245 346106/01245 423333.
In Essex there is now an organisation called Essex Lifestyle Service. The service covers all of Essex and can help patients with their lifestyle choices. People can self refer or be referred by their GP, other organisations for help relating to Alcohol, nutritional support, stress, physical activity, eating habits, lifestyle change, smoking cessation, family support and managing long term conditions. They are open Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm. Tel: 0300 303 9988 or email: provide.essexlifestyles@nhs.net
For Thurrock and Southend there is ACE Lifestyle for similar work to Essex Lifestyle Service. Tel: 0800 022 4524 for weight management and health checks or visit the website at www.acelifestyle.org
There is also Thurrock Healthy Lifestyle Service on 0800 292 2299, Email: THLS@thurrock.gov.uk
