NHS Dentistry Plan Is ‘Sticking Plaster On Leaking Dam’

The manager of a dental practice in Market Harborough says government plans to address a shortage of NHS dentists do not go far enough.

It has been announced today cash payments will be offered to those who take on more patients, with £20,000 if they are prepared to work in areas where recruitment is a problem.

No dental surgeries in Market Harborough are currently taking on any new NHS patients.

Zafran Majid from Brite Care Dental spoke to HFM:

File pic

Health and Social Care Secretary, Victoria Atkins, said: “Dentistry is a priority for this government. I know from my experience representing a rural and coastal constituency in Lincolnshire how frustrating it is for people who cannot get a dentist appointment, especially after the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on dentistry. We have seen big improvements over the past year, but now we are going much further.

“I’m determined to deliver faster, simpler and fairer access to NHS dentistry for patients – and this plan will help anyone who has not been able to see a dentist in the past two years to do so.”

“The long-term decisions we are taking will help ensure that good oral health is available to all, wherever you live and whatever your background.”