Luke Barnett Lab and Bupa Dental Practice in Watford invited local MP Dean Russell to tour their facilities and discuss the future of dental services provided through the NHS and privately.
In recent months, constituents have been informed they can no longer access NHS dental treatment. Dentists are private providers who take on NHS contracts and agree to provide a set number of appointments or treatment (Units of Dental Activity) funded by the NHS. Unfortunately, over recent months some practices have ended their contracts and no longer provide NHS treatment to patients.
Dean has met with local dental providers and Hertfordshire Dental Committee members to discuss the causes and what he can do as the MP for Watford.
After the visits Dean said “I appreciate that many constituents have been unable to access a dentist through the NHS and have subsequently met with local dental practices, Hertfordshire Dental Committee members and the Minister responsible.
I found the discussions with the industry experts to be insightful and I will be taking their concerns forward to the Government to ensure access to vital treatment for constituents.”
Improving access to NHS dentistry will be one of the key priorities for the health service over the coming months.
The Government hold regular discussions with the British Dental Association and other organisations in the dental sector to support and improve NHS dental care. The recently published ‘Our Plan for Patients’ outlines steps to incentivise dentists to take on more NHS work and to amend the NHS dental contract which will in turn improve access for patients.
