Guernsey Health Department Defends Dental Fees
Guernsey’s Health and Social Services Department has defended dental fees on the island, after the cost of dental treatment was criticised.
Deputy Peter Sherbourne criticised the cost of dental treatment and said that the decision to close the school dental service on the island was wrong; he added that many people cannot afford to visit the dentist and pay for dental care for their children and parents who have children who need orthodontic treatment are struggling.
Sarah Lyle, Head of Children’s Services, spoke out following Deputy Sherbourne’s criticism, saying that financial help is available for families in need. Lyle also added that there is sufficient help available for children who need braces. However cases must be prioritised because the budget is finite and there is not enough funding to provide treatment for everyone.
She added that the current system supported those who could not afford treatment, as well as children who fit the eligibility criteria for braces.
Chief medical officer, Stephen Bridgman, said that many people on the island were suffering as a result of inequality and problems with access to health services; Mr Bridgman concluded that many people could not afford even basic dental care in his annual report.
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