The statutory duties of NHS Essex Integrated Care Board (ICB) set out our legal responsibilities for planning and improving NHS services across the county. These duties guide how we work with partners to improve the health and wellbeing of people living in Essex.
Our purpose is to improve population health, reduce health inequalities and ensure people can access high-quality NHS services when they need them.
To fulfil the statutory duties of NHS Essex, we are required by law to:
Planning and funding NHS services
We plan and fund NHS services across Essex to meet the needs of our population. This includes commissioning services such as:
- hospital (acute) care
- community health services
- mental health services
- primary care, including GP services
Improving population health and reducing inequalities
We work with partners across Essex to improve population health and reduce inequalities in access, experience and health outcomes. This includes focusing on prevention, early intervention and supporting people to live healthier lives.
Integrating health and care services
A key responsibility of NHS Essex is to support the integration of health, care and wider public services. By working closely with local authorities, voluntary organisations and community partners, we aim to deliver more joined-up and person-centred care.
Ensuring value for public money
We are responsible for making the best possible use of public funds. This means ensuring services are financially sustainable, provide good value for money and deliver high-quality care for the people of Essex.
Involving residents and communities
Listening to residents, patients and communities is central to our work. We involve people in the design, development and improvement of services so that care better reflects the needs and experiences of local communities.
Promoting innovation and quality improvement
We promote innovation, quality improvement and evidence-based care across the health and care system. This helps ensure services are safe, effective and continually improving.
Addressing the wider determinants of health
Health is influenced by more than healthcare services alone. NHS Essex works with partners to address the wider determinants of health, including housing, education, employment and community wellbeing.