At Health Questions today local MP Kevin Foster raised those who need a new NHS Dentist, are having with finding a practice accepting new patients in our bay.
With less practices offering NHS services and more closing their list to new registrations or having a long wait to be accepted, there is a growing need to address the current contracting arrangements to ensure an NHS Dental service is available to those who need it.
The Government has been engaged in talks with the British Dental Association and other stakeholders to reform dental contract since 2021/22. Through these discussions, several steps have been agreed to improve financial incentives for dental practices, grow the dentistry workforce, support practices to take new patients and supporting patients with dental costs. Yet more is needed.
The Department for Health and Social Care has stated it will be publishing a plan for dentistry in the coming months. Kevin therefore asked today for confirmation it will include a clear target not just for more appointments, but ensuring people can register for NHS dental services in their local community.
