Recent feedback on health and social care services in the Isle of Wight highlights ongoing worries regarding dental care availability, as revealed in a report by Healthwatch Isle of Wight.
In an intelligence report covering the period from August 13 to September 12, 2024, the local health watchdog received over 60 negative responses specifically about dentistry services. Islanders expressed significant anxiety over the potential closure of another NHS dental practice in the western region of the island. Fortunately, the MyDentist practice in Freshwater has been preserved with the assistance of another NHS provider.
One resident shared their struggle, stating, “My whole family is unable to access NHS dentistry since we moved to the Isle of Wight. I’ve had a series of three fillings, but I could only afford two at this time.”
Another resident lamented, “More dentists that accept NHS patients are desperately needed on the Isle of Wight. I’ve been trying for years to find one. I cannot afford to sign up with any on the mainland that caters to NHS patients. It’s appalling; I haven’t even managed to get on the list for the dental aid bus.”
Feedback regarding GP services also drew attention, with more than 20 negative comments received. One patient recounted their experience, stating, “Nothing went well. I went for a blood test, and no one informed me that I needed to fast beforehand.”
Overall, the feedback from the community regarding health and social care services has been predominantly negative, with 50% of responses classified as such between August 13 and September 12, 2024. In comparison, only 3% were neutral or mixed, while 47% were positive. Other concerns raised included long wait times for neurology assessments and support, alongside positive remarks about the staff and care at Mountbatten. A respondent with a relative in hospice care praised the staff for their “love and care,” stating they went “above and beyond.”
James Roach, director of primary care at NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight, addressed these concerns, stating, “We are dedicated to ensuring the highest quality of care for our communities and maintaining access to essential NHS services on the Isle of Wight. Over the past two years, we have seen an increase in GP appointments, improvements in NHS dental access, and have established more collaborative efforts with community services. Additionally, we have introduced various innovative services in partnership with our GPs.”
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