MPs calls for better access to emergency dentists in Norfolk and Waveney
James Wild MP has joined MPs across the Norfolk and Waveney NHS area to call on the Integrated Care Board (ICB) to deliver emergency dental hubs across the area.
In a letter to the Norfolk Waveney ICB Chief Executive, Tracey Bleakley, sent this month the MPs express concerns about access to “emergency treatment for both children and adults, including those that are in severe pain.” Constituents have regularly contacted MPs for assistance with finding emergency appointments and the MPs called for changes so those with chronic and painful dental needs can get NHS treatment.
Under NHS reforms, ICBs are now responsible for commissioning NHS dental services to meet demand in local communities. While there have been improvements with the opening of new dental surgeries - including Smile Dental Practice in Lynn - which offer emergency appointments, the MPs express concern that emergency provision across Norfolk and Waveney needs to improve.
In the letter MPs proposed that the ICB allocate funding for dedicated emergency NHS hubs and call for a meeting with the ICB which is expected to take place shortly.
Commenting on the letter, James said:
“Improving access to NHS dentistry is one of my priorities and the new Smile Dental Care practice I campaigned for has offered thousands of appointments, including for emergencies, since it opened last summer.
But there are still too few dentists particularly for emergency treatment. Along with MPs across Norfolk I will keep urging the NHS to take further action and innovative approaches to improve access.”
The government is also set to unveil further reforms to improve access NHS dentistry shortly.
