20 month wait for a dentist on Isle of Man
Some dental patients on the Isle of Man are facing a wait of 20 months to see a dentist, it has been revealed.
The announcement was made as the government revealed a new oral health strategy, which outlines a five year plan to improve access to dental services and reduce rates of decay on the Island. Figures show that rates of tooth decay on the Isle of Man are higher than the North West of England, which has the highest rate in the UK.
The new oral health strategy will replace the previous policy, which was in place for ten years.
Norman McGregor Edwards, health strategy and performance director, said that 4,500 patients had registered with an NHS dentist over the last two years and this has effectively halved the waiting list; however, there is still a wait of up to 20 months and in one area, waiting times may be even longer.
The new oral health strategy has been launched following a two week consultation last year; members of the public were invited to submit their comments, along with health professionals, dentists and politicians.
The new strategy is a 10 point plan, which focuses on preventative dental care, targeting vulnerable patients, improving access to dental services and promoting oral health amongst children under five.
Join this Discussion