EQUIP (Education and Quality in Practice) was formed in 1996 by the amalgamation of the North Essex components of the Essex Medical Audit Advisory Group (MAAG) which had been in existence since 1990 and GP Education in Essex, which had been in existence since 1992.

Prior to April 1996, the organisation had worked across the whole of Essex, but with the division of Essex into North and South Health Authorities, EQUIP took the lead role in co-ordinating audit and education programmes in primary care in North Essex working within the NHS family.

In August 2017 EQUIP  was incorporated and is now Essex EQUIP Limited.

EQUIP Strategic Aims

  • To collaborate closely with Primary Care Networks (PCNs) and NHS England to support the implementation of their strategic aims. Enhancing the quality of patient care through comprehensive education initiatives.
  • To provide and support opportunities for professional development for all members of the Primary Health Care Teams and allied professions and the EQUIP team.
  • To have an administrative structure in place to support the Primary Health Care Teams and ICBs in delivering evidence based practice in line with the Clinical Governance agenda and Health Improvement Programmes.
  • To work closely with other stakeholders, such as the LMC, Primary Care Careers, PCNs and ICBs in developing and retaining the primary care workforce.

Elevating Primary Care Through Expert Training and Education

In the ever-evolving landscape of primary care, continuous professional development is crucial for ensuring high-quality patient care. This is where Essex EQUIP (Education and Quality In Practice) shines. With a wealth of experience in delivering high quality training and education to primary care staff, Essex EQUIP stands out as a beacon of excellence and innovation.

A Legacy of Excellence in Training

Essex EQUIP has long been a trusted partner for primary care providers, offering a comprehensive suite of training programs tailored to meet the diverse needs of healthcare professionals. From clinical skills and leadership development to quality improvement initiatives, Essex EQUIP’s programs are designed to equip primary care staff with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in their roles.

The organisation’s success is rooted in its vast experience and deep understanding of the primary care sector. Over the years, Essex EQUIP has cultivated a robust curriculum that is both practical and relevant, ensuring that healthcare professionals are well-prepared to meet the challenges of modern medical practice.

A Unique Organisational Model

One of the most remarkable aspects of Essex EQUIP is its organisational structure. Unlike traditional limited companies, Essex EQUIP is set up with no individual owners. This means that there are no shareholders or private individuals who profit from the organisation’s success. Instead, all profits generated by Essex EQUIP are reinvested back into the business. This unique model ensures that the primary focus remains on improving services for users and commissioners, rather than generating profits for owners.

Reinvesting for Better Service

The reinvestment of profits is a cornerstone of Essex EQUIP’s philosophy. By channelling all earnings back into the organisation, Essex EQUIP is able to continuously enhance its offerings and infrastructure. This reinvestment strategy supports the development of new training programs, the incorporation of cutting-edge technologies, and the expansion of educational resources.

This commitment to reinvestment ensures that Essex EQUIP remains at the forefront of primary care education, delivering exceptional value to healthcare professionals and the communities it serves.

Commitment to Quality and Improvement

At the heart of Essex EQUIP’s mission is a commitment to quality and continuous improvement. The organisation collaborates closely with healthcare providers, commissioners, and other stakeholders to identify emerging needs and tailor its training programs accordingly. This proactive approach ensures that Essex EQUIP’s offerings are always aligned with the latest best practices and industry standards.

In addition, Essex EQUIP places a strong emphasis on feedback and evaluation. By regularly collating input from participants and stakeholders, the organisation is able to refine its programs and address any areas for improvement. This iterative process of feedback and enhancement is key to maintaining the high standards for which Essex EQUIP is known.