NHS Confederation and NHS Providers respond to government announcement on improved access to dental appointments

Responding to the government’s announcement that patients across the country have benefited from improved access to dental appointments, Ruth Rankine, director of the primary care network and neighbourhood lead at the NHS Confederation and NHS Providers, said:

“We welcome the news that more patients have been able to access dental appointments, with the government’s target now exceeded. This is an important step forward, and it is particularly encouraging to see expanded access helping patients to be seen earlier, preventing conditions from worsening and reducing the need for urgent treatment. Integrated Care Boards have a vital role in improving access and tackling oral health inequalities, and NHS leaders across systems are committed to building on this progress.

“However, this progress must form part of the wider reform needed in NHS dentistry. This includes designing contracts and care pathways that prioritise prevention and enable earlier intervention, helping to reduce the escalation of dental disease and support more sustainable services for patients and the NHS.”