Dental services in Barnsley
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Following the recurrence of dentistry concerns in the top intelligence trends, Healthwatch Barnsley decided to conduct a quick snapshot survey of dentists in Barnsley. This was in order to collect more local intelligence on NHS dental services. They undertook a quick poll at an engagement event on 23 August 2023. They heard from 104 people. They also undertook a mystery shop of dentists to find out which were taking on new NHS patients - results of this are included in an appendix.
Three in five people have been able to see an NHS dentist in the last two years.
Nearly nine in ten were able to get all the treatment they needed at NHS prices.
Most people thought the NHS charges were fair when compared to paying for private treatment.
Residents that were unable to obtain NHS treatment obviously reported that it was difficult to get an appointment. The residents who thought it was easy to get an appointment were regularly visiting the same dentist before the pandemic; once services opened up again they were called back in for routine check-ups.
Nearly two in five felt that the price of NHS dental treatment puts them off going to see a dentist as often as recommended.