Healthwatch Cornwall Report Highlights Dental Care Crisis Affecting Local Communities
Key findings indicate that patients often wait over a year for appointments, with more than half unable to secure NHS dental care. Financial barriers further prevent vulnerable individuals from accessing treatment, leading to worsening health issues.
“Access to dental care is essential,” said Debbie Gilbert, CEO of Healthwatch Cornwall. “The Dental Crisis Report highlights a pressing issue: too many people in Cornwall are unable to access the dental care they need, facing long waits and significant costs. This lack of access affects physical health, mental well-being, and daily lives.
Healthwatch Cornwall is calling on decision-makers to prioritise dental services and work collaboratively to make them accessible and affordable for everyone. Every resident deserves the right to timely care, and we are committed to driving the changes needed to achieve this’’.
Healthwatch Cornwall urges local health authorities to address these challenges by prioritising funding and resources for dental services. The Dental Crisis Report can be accessed on our website, and we encourage residents and providers to share their experiences, helping drive meaningful change.
