Access to NHS Dental Care in Luton: New Healthwatch Luton research reveals persistent barriers
Healthwatch Luton has released new insight into residents’ experiences of trying to access NHS dental care and the picture shows that many people across the borough are still finding it difficult to get the treatment they need. The research, gathered through community engagement and conversations with local dental practices, revealed that people are often facing long waits, struggling to register with an NHS dentist, or turning to private or emergency services when they can’t find an appointment.
Despite these access challenges, many residents told us that the care they received, once they finally secured a slot, was positive, with several praising individual dentists and practice staff for their professionalism and support.
Our calls to local dental practices reflected what people told us: most practices currently have limited or no capacity to take on new NHS patients, with many describing ongoing workforce pressures and high demand.
Healthwatch Luton will continue to monitor the situation closely and work with commissioners and providers to ensure the community’s voice is at the centre of improving access to NHS dental care.
For our full report check out the reports section of our website.
