South Tanet MP Calls For NHS Cover Following Dental Surgery Closures
South Tanet MP, Laura Sandys has called for the government to ensure that there is suitable NHS cover for dental patients in the area following the closure of two surgeries; two practices were closed following investigations by the Office of Fair Trading.
Laura Sandys said that although the closure of the surgeries was nothing to do with the NHS, it was important to ensure that patients still have access to NHS dental care and this is why she urged the government to ensure that provisions are in place to allow access to dental services.
Sandys asked the government to confirm that her constituents would still be able to access the treatment they need and Health Secretary, Andrew Lansley, said that measures were in place to provide cover for the surgeries and also stated that NHS Kent and Medway had already started the tendering process for the NHS contracts.
Mr Lansley confirmed that a number of dentists in the area would be covering from September the 1st and this was backed up by Paula Smith, head of dental at NHS Kent and Medway, who said that six dentists would be treating patients previously registered with the two former practices from the beginning of September. Patients are advised to call the helpdesk number on 0808 238 9797 for information about temporary services.
Mr Lansley reiterated that the government is committed to improving NHS dental services and confirmed that there has been an increase in the number of dentists since the coalition government took over; in 2010/2011 there were 22,799 dentists in comparison to 22,003 in 2009/2010.
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