Knowing the Drill: Patient Views of High Weald Dentists and East Sussex Emergency Dental Services
Download (PDF 599.46 KB)Summary of report content
In June 2019, Healthwatch East Sussex conducted a pilot project to engage with dental practices and their patients. They visited 7 high street NHS dentists in the High Weald area and all 3 Emergency Dental Service clinics covering East Sussex. Prior to each Enter and View visit, a brief questionnaire was put to practice staff to obtain information regarding facilities and access at the practice premises. At the visits, simple questionnaires were offered to patients to gather their views and experiences. They also conducted mystery shopper observations of practice websites and out of hours phone messages. Feedback to providers on this activity will hopefully contribute towards improved engagement of patients and their access to timely and relevant information.
Key findings
- The vast majority of patients, at both high street dentists and Emergency Dental Services, were very positive about the care they received.
- The findings of this report show that some practices could significantly improve their quality and accessibility of information. This may include:
- The location and contact details of the nearest out of hours services.
- Information, support and facilities for patients with access needs, as well as signposting to referral route for Special Care Dental Services.
- More information about NHS charges for treatment, especially about how to claim exemption.
- Information, support and facilities are not consistently available to patients with access needs.