PCT unveils dental access plan

7:19am Saturday 12th April 2008

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Plans have been announced to improve NHS dental access for county residents.

Since April 2007, 13,000 patients have been allocated to an NHS dentist by Herefordshire Primary Care Trust (PCT).

But there are still about 4,000 people on the central dental waiting list and the PCT is aiming to reduce it further by March 2009.

The trust is launching a series of initiatives, including recruiting the services of a consultant in dental public health to develop new services focused more on prevention.

It also plans further expansion of general dental capacity in the south of the county and an oral health needs assessment for the county to develop services which cater for the ageing population and safeguard specialised services for hard to reach and vulnerable patients.

The PCT's Paul Edwards said: "The PCT remains committed to ensuring all Herefordshire residents who seek NHS treatment are able to get the treatment they need under NHS terms and conditions."

For the full story, see this week's Hereford Times.