Local MP, Graham Stuart, met a senior NHS official following concerns that residents are struggling to access NHS dentistry.
During his meeting with Emma Wilson, who is the Head of Dental Commissioning for Yorkshire and the Humber, Graham raised constituents’ concerns that some residents are being told the wait for NHS dentistry is up to twenty-four months. This is supported by a study published by the Association of Dental Groups which found that the East Riding of Yorkshire is one of 20 emerging ‘dental deserts’ with only 32 NHS Dentists per 100,000 people.
Graham said, “I know people are struggling to access the dental work they are entitled to on the NHS. With the impacts of COVID-19 still being felt in the industry there are challenges, but I am going to continue working with my colleagues in the NHS to get the waiting lists down and open up more capacity for my constituents.”
Cllr Lyn Healing, who is a ward councillor in Withernsea said, “In Withernsea, there are real challenges in accessing an NHS dentist appointment. I recently phoned round every local practice and I was shocked to be told that local residents may have to wait two years to see a dentist. I am pleased Graham met Emma Wilson from the NHS and I will continue to champion for greater dental provisions in Withernsea. Going private is not an option and Withernsea must be a priority"
