A new report from Healthwatch Isle of Wight highlights ongoing challenges in accessing healthcare, with GP appointments and dental costs emerging as major concerns for residents.
Between 13th January and 12th February 2025, Healthwatch received 342 pieces of feedback from the public.
More than half of the feedback was negative, with 52 per cent (177) of people raising concerns about healthcare services.
Only 45 per cent (156) of feedback was positive, while 3 per cent (9) was neutral.
GP access remains a challenge
Many residents continue to struggle with getting GP appointments.
One individual said they could not book a face-to-face appointment, a phone consultation, or any other form of communication with a medical professional through their surgery’s online system.
Healthwatch has shared concerns about this issue with local health providers.
High dental costs put treatment out of reach
The cost of dental care is another major barrier for Isle of Wight residents.
One person reported that they had been quoted thousands of pounds for essential dental treatment, which they could not afford.
As a result, they felt they had no option but to wait until their teeth deteriorated to the point where extraction was necessary.
Healthwatch has raised these concerns with Labour MP for Isle of Wight West, Richard Quigley, before his meeting with the Minister of State.
Hospital parking issues continue
Problems with hospital parking remain a common complaint.
One resident described the parking system as “not fit for purpose” and said it caused significant difficulties for the community.
Healthwatch has recorded multiple complaints about faulty ticket machines at St Mary’s Hospital car park.
Community pharmacy delays affect medication supply
Healthwatch also received reports of delayed medication deliveries.
One person, who relies on a community pharmacy, experienced several days without essential medication due to late deliveries.
On some occasions, their prescriptions arrived as late as 11pm.
Mental health services under pressure
Several people raised concerns about long waiting times for mental health support.
One person described experiencing delays in accessing therapy and highlighted the high turnover of staff in community mental health services.
Healthwatch continues to collect feedback on mental health provision to ensure that commissioners are aware of these issues.
Healthwatch engages with MPs and the community
Healthwatch has been active in bringing these concerns to decision-makers.
Representatives met with Conservative MP for Isle of Wight East, Joe Robertson, to discuss health and social care challenges and spoke with members of the Health and Social Care Select Committee during their visit to the Isle of Wight.
The organisation also gathered feedback from people living with dementia at recent drop-in sessions.
Positive feedback and local successes
Not all feedback was negative.
One resident praised Argyll House GP practice, describing its staff as “brilliant” and “very helpful”.
Another person described Kite Hill care home as “well-maintained, clean and friendly”, saying that staff were “fantastic”.
Healthwatch has shared positive feedback with service providers to recognise where things are working well.
Carers Isle of Wight launch new book
Healthwatch also highlighted positive community initiatives, including the launch of ‘Save Dave’, a book created by unpaid carers on the Isle of Wight.
The book is available to purchase at Brading Roman Villa, Carers IW, The Riverside Centre in Newport, and The Lifeboat pub in East Cowes. All profits will support adult carers on the Island.
MPs visit Isle of Wight to discuss social care
The House of Commons Health and Social Care Select Committee visited the Isle of Wight to investigate social care challenges.
The cross-party group, chaired by Layla Moran MP, met with representatives from St Mary’s Hospital, Isle of Wight Council, Age UK and Healthwatch Isle of Wight.
Discussions focused on the Island’s ageing population and the high per capita spending on social care.
Mountbatten film recognised in national awards
Mountbatten Isle of Wight’s film ‘Without Mountbatten’ has been named a finalist in the 2025 Smiley Charity Film Awards.
The awards, known as the “charity Oscars”, received over 50 million views across all entries this year.
Healthwatch has encouraged residents to watch the film and support Mountbatten’s work.
Healthwatch continues to gather public feedback
Healthwatch Isle of Wight remains committed to collecting and sharing residents’ experiences of health and social care services.
People can submit feedback via social media, telephone, email, or in person at community events.
Healthwatch also plans to launch regular surveys to better understand public priorities and concerns.
To read the full report, visit the Healthwatch Isle of Wight website.
