Bradford MP Welcomes New Pilot Schemes to Improve Access to NHS Dentistry in West Yorkshire
Bradford South MP Judith Cummins has welcomed plans to introduce pilot schemes to improve access to NHS dentistry in West Yorkshire.
NHS England is working with the West Yorkshire Local Dental Network to implement pilot programmes to make it easier for people in Bradford and the surrounding area to see a dentist. The move comes just weeks after research published by Healthwatch Bradford suggested that many people had experienced difficulties registering with a dentist or getting an appointment in the region. Ms Cummins has campaigned for better access to NHS dental care in Bradford and even questioned the Prime Minister on the issue in the Houses of Parliament. Although the pilots represent a step in the right direction, Ms Cummins underlined the importance of doing more to improve standards of oral health in the area. Rates of decay in Bradford are among the worst in England.
Andrew Jones, manager at Healthwatch Bradford, also welcomed the news. Feedback from patients revealed that most were very happy with the service they received once they were able to see a dentist, but many had to wait a long time to travel to actually get an appointment. The aim of the scheme will be to try and make more appointments available and therefore reduce waiting times.
Further details of the pilot schemes are expected to be released in the near future.
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