Bradford Dental Patients Struggling to Find a Local Dentist
Research has suggested that only a small number of dental practices in the Bradford district are accepting new NHS patients. Reports show that only twelve clinics across the region are taking on new NHS patients.
The news comes as Healthwatch Bradford prepares to publish the findings of market research conducted over the past few months. The health watchdog invited local people to share their stories related to NHS dental services in Bradford. Victoria Simmons, communications manager, said that the response from local dental patients has been overwhelming and the majority of people were keen to voice concerns over the lack of access to NHS care. Many people contacted the group to share tales of being unable to see a dentist or join a register in the area. Ms Simmons also said that colleagues at Healthwatch Bradford had expressed frustration at trying to help local people find a dentist and being unable to locate services on the doorstep. Commonly, there is a wait or a drive involved, which makes life difficult for those who rely on public transport.
Findings from the study will be passed onto NHS England it is hoped that solutions can be found to problems highlighted in the report.
Healthwatch Beadford will work with NHS England and other organisations, including the Local Dental Committee, to improve patients’ experiences of NHS dental care and try increase access to routine dental treatment.
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