Health Watchdog Raises Concerns Over Access to Dental Services in Leicestershire
A health watchdog has raised concerns over access to NHS dental services in Leicestershire in a new report that suggests some patients are travelling long distance to see a dentist.
Healthwatch Leicestershire revealed that some patients are travelling more than 10 miles to find an NHS dentist and others are forced to join waiting lists or offered private treatment, which is significantly more expensive.
In order to compile the report, Healthwatch Leicestershire invited local people to participate in a survey related to NHS dental services access in the region. A total of 260 people took part.
The report suggested that some people are travelling more than 10 miles to see a dentist, while others have been informed that local practices are no longer taking on new NHS patients. The watchdog also received complaints about dental prices, especially at private practices.
Chair of the watchdog Rick Moore said that there is a clear need for improved communication between dental providers and patients.
The report will now be sent to NHS England for consideration.
Head of NHS England primary care services in Leicestershire, Di Pegg, advised those struggling to access services that they no longer need to be registered with a dentist to receive dental treatment. It is now possible for patients to receive treatment from any dentist that provides treatment for NHS patients.
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