Dental Patients Facing Access Problems in Suffolk
An investigation has revealed problems with dental access in Suffolk. Reporters contacted more than 70 dental practices in the region, only to find that less than half were taking on new patients. In some towns, no places were available to new fee-paying patients or those exempt from NHS dental charges.
Reporters contacted practices listed on the NHS Choices website and found that 33 were accepting new patients and 43 were unable to take on any more patients. The practices were located across the county and there were variations in ease of access to services. In some towns, including Stowmarket, there were no places available. In Bury St Edmunds, only 3 out of the 10 clinics were taking on new NHS patients and one of the three had a four month wait to see a dentist. Patients in Ipswich fared a little better, as 13 of the 28 clinics contacted had places available.
One receptionist who spoke to investigators explained that there was simply no more funding available to add more patients to the register and this problem is experienced by several practices across the UK.
Mother of two Jacqui Clarke moved to Ipswich from London three years ago and said she has found it very difficult to see a dentist in Ipswich. She would still consider going back down to London if she needed dental treatment. Zoe Baker is another resident who has experienced trouble. Her mother called for an appointment last week and was told there were no slots free until November.
The investigations also showed that private services were more readily available, although the cost of treatment is often significantly higher.
In response to the findings, chairman of Healthwatch Suffolk Dr Tony Rollo said it is important that NHS services are accessible to people regardless of where they live in the county.
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