Thanks to Jenny for sharing this news with VB readers. In her own words. Ed
The Isle of Wight LINk (Local Involvement Network) has compiled a report based on Islanders’ experiences of their dentist after being contacted by a member of the public who was unable to find a local NHS dentist for herself and her children, and was offered a place at a surgery on the opposite side of the Island.
Information has now been gathered from people across the Island by way of email, face-to-face questionnaire and online survey.
The stats
Of the 109 people who took part just 44% have children with an NHS dentist on the Island. In addition, of the 71 people who completed the online questionnaire:
- 84% have an Island dentist
- 39% have a local dentist
- 65% have an NHS dentist
- 49% were aware that under 18s have the right to free NHS dental care in the UK
Survey comments
When asked about the service they receive, most Islanders were happy to elaborate, with responses such as:
“My dentist is great! However it took me years to get with an NHS dentist. I can’t afford to go private.”
“I’ve lived on the IOW since 2002 and have NEVER found a dentist offering NHS treatment. Fortunately, I now work in Portsmouth and can use one there without incurring additional travel costs. Healthcare on the Island stinks.”
“I’m fairly happy. The staff are pleasant and they do not prescribe unnecessary treatments. However, I am concerned that, one day, they may decide to get rid of their NHS patients and take private patients only, my previous dentist (in Newport) did exactly that some years ago.”
“I can only get emergency treatment. I cannot afford even NHS dentistry prices. I am disabled and on a very low income.”
The report is now being finalised and forwarded to the Isle of Wight LINk’s Stewardship Group, who will be reviewing the content in order to consider appropriate proposals for change.
Image: Francis Bourgouin under CC BY 2.0
