Thousands of South Yorkshire patients could their lose dentist if cuts approved, warns MP

A South Yorkshire MP has warned that thousands of South Yorkshire residents could lose their dentist if funding is cut.

Mp John Healey, the labour representative for Wentworth and Dearne has urged ministers to carry on providing funding that has allowed 5,000 patients in his constituency see an NHS dentist in the last three years.

The funding is set to run out in April and this would leave dental practices with no choice but to strike off patients, adding to pressure on hospitals.

The Access to General Dental Services funding has meant 4,832 patients who previously had not been to a dentist in years – including children – have been able to get check-ups and treatment. They have been treated at practices across Rotherham in Wath, Swinton, Rawmarsh, Bramley, Thurcroft and Maltby.

Some practices have told Mr Healey they have already had to tell patients they cannot book them in for their next check-up.

Steve Thompson, chair of Rotherham Local Dental Committee and dentist at Bramley Dental Practice said: “This vital funding has enabled some 5,000 patients across six local practices to be able to see a dentist, many for the first time in years.

“There couldn’t be a worse time to pull the plug on funding. This will only leave many families struggling trying to find care in already challenging times.

“The clock is ticking, and there has been little to no communication on how patients are going to be managed.”

Stuart Hodgson, a dentist at Rawmarsh Dental Practice, added: “We are deeply concerned about the possible non-renewal of this access funding.

“Rawmarsh is an area of high dental need, and the funding allowed us to provide vital dental care to those in our community who hadn’t previously been able to see a dentist.

“Cuts will leave jobs at risk and patients without a dentist.

Mr Healey added:“If this funding is stopped then our dental practices – who are all fully committed to NHS work – will have to lay off staff and strike off patients.”

The MP has requested meetings urgently with Richard Barker, NHS England’s regional director, and Jo Churchill MP, minister for public health and primary care.

He is also asking people to contact him if they have recently started seeing a dentist again and are worried they may be affected, or if they have found it difficult to see an NHS dentist.

READ MORE:

- The pandemic has made life even harder for the most vulnerable people in Sheffield

- Ambulances turned away from South Yorkshire hospital due to “demand on services”

- Help create a permanent historical record of beautiful Sheffield bath house

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.