Press Release: 26.05.09

26th May 2009
Gordon concerned about access to NHS dentists

Gordon Henderson is asking local people to let him know if they are having a problem finding an NHS dentist to treat them.

Mr Henderson made the plea for information following news that over half the people living in the area covered by the Eastern and Coastal Kent Primary Care Trust have not seen a dentist in the last two years.

New official figures published by the Government have revealed that a shocking number of people across Kent do not have access to an NHS dentist. However no figures were available for Swale, which is why Mr Henderson would like local residents to contact him if they have had a problem being seen by a dentist.

Mr Henderson says that he is pleased that the Conservative Party is proposing a series of reforms to ensure more patients can go to an NHS dentist, rather than force people to go private or miss out on treatment completely.

The latest NHS figures show that 53% of the population across the Eastern and Coastal Kent PCT area and 36% across the Medway PCT area have not been seen by an NHS dentist in the last two years.

Conservatives have announced a series of reforms to NHS dentistry which will improve NHS care. A comprehensive plan proposes:
Creating new incentives for dentists to spend more time on preventative dental care, improving oral health and reducing long-term costs.
Restoring access to an NHS dentist for the one million patients who have lost it under Labour’s failed system, by removing costly bureaucracy and cutting out waste.
Using money currently spent on carrying out unnecessary treatments to reintroduce dental screening for children in schools.
Ensuring that taxpayer-trained dentists work for the NHS for at least five years.

Mr Henderson said:
‘These figures are quite alarming and I am really concerned that there might be people in Sittingbourne & Sheppey who are finding it difficult gaining access to an NHS dentist.

‘If anybody has found themselves in this position I would urge them to contact me and let me know. People can ring the local Conservative office on 01795 669108, or leave a message on my website www.gordonhenderson.org.uk’