The Director of Primary Care at NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight Integrated Care Board has addressed concerns regarding NHS dental services on the Isle of Wight. In a letter to Isle of Wight Council Leader, James Roach, Director of Primary Care, acknowledged the difficulties the Island faces in accessing dental care and outlined steps being taken to improve the situation.
He emphasised that the NHS is aware of the challenges and is committed to ensuring that access to NHS dentistry is available to those who need it.
Access to NHS dentistry
Roach highlighted that the responsibility for commissioning dental services was transferred to the Integrated Care Board (ICB) in 2022, and while they are working hard to improve services, dentistry across the UK is not at the level it should be. He acknowledged that the Isle of Wight’s unique geography adds to these challenges but assured that steps are being taken to improve access.
According to Roach, access to NHS dentistry has improved across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, with rates increasing from 35.74% in February 2022 to 41.8% in February 2024.
Mobile dental unit and local solutions
Roach noted that targeted measures have been introduced to address health inequalities on the Isle of Wight. A mobile dental unit, commissioned earlier this year via the charity Dentaid, has provided more than 10,000 treatments to individuals who previously had no access to a dentist. The unit travels across the Island two days a week, providing much-needed care to those in remote areas.
Mr Roach acknowledged that while this is not a long-term solution, it is an important step in offering flexible commissioning that meets immediate needs.
Addressing service gaps and workforce issues
Responding to the closure of MyDentist in Freshwater, Mr Roach confirmed that the ICB has already put another provider in place to take over the contract. While these situations are less than ideal, he reassured that swift action is being taken to prevent disruptions in care.
He explained that local solutions are being explored to tackle the ongoing issues posed by the current national dental contract and the availability of a workforce capable of delivering services. The ICB is also in dialogue with local MPs to support broader reforms, including maintaining an uplifted UDA (Units of Dental Activity) rate for the Isle of Wight.
Looking ahead
In closing, Mr Roach emphasised that the ICB recognises the challenges ahead, but is committed to working alongside stakeholders and community representatives to achieve shared goals. He expressed his eagerness to discuss the matter further in an upcoming meeting.
Jordan: Determined to see more positive actions
Commenting on the letter, Isle of Wight council leader, Phil Jordan, said,
“I appreciate the reply from the ICB and their acceptance of the obligations on them to provide satisfactory services for our residents.
“The offer of discussions is welcome, but I am equally determined to see more positive actions to elevate the level of services which are affecting our Island residents and especially those least able to afford private treatments or find NHS services.
“I will be seeking much more investment and attention to solving the problems the ICB have accepted and highlighted as their duty and responsibility.”
