Northern Irish patients happy with their dentist
A survey has revealed that nine out of ten patients in Northern Ireland are happy with the service they receive from their dentist.
The survey, which was carried out by the NHS Patient and Client Council, revealed that the vast majority of dental patients are satisfied with their dentist; however, the report highlighted some areas of concern, including access to services in rural areas. Several patients commented on the availability of services for residents in rural areas, with many saying that they had to travel long distances to see their dentist. There was also concern for migrant workers.
The government has recently invested an additional sum of 17 million pounds in dental services to improve access to NHS services and health ministers are currently in talks with the BDA to draw up a new dental contract.
Chief dental officer, Donncha O’Carolan said that the results of the survey were positive, with most patients happy with the current service they are receiving from their NHS dentist; however, the survey also flagged up patient concerns, which can now be addressed. Problems raised by patients included confusion over the registration process and whether treatments were being provided privately or by the NHS. The results of the survey will be used to identify and address issues and improve access in underserved areas.
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