What is the current state of NHS dentistry according to Wes Streeting?

Wes Streeting described NHS dentistry as "moving in the right direction" but still "a far, far cry away" from ideal, calling patient self-extraction of teeth "shameful."

How is the NHS performing overall, according to the Health Secretary?

The Health Secretary likened the NHS's condition to a patient that is "recovering, but not out of the woods," noting that waiting lists are falling.

What are the healthcare challenges in Cornwall?

Cornwall faces challenges due to its geography and having only one hospital, prompting a government push for more community-based healthcare services.

Home / Health / Shameful NHS Dentistry: Patients Pulling Teeth

Shameful NHS Dentistry: Patients Pulling Teeth

23 Jan

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Summary

Health Secretary calls patient self-extraction of teeth 'shameful'.
NHS dentistry is improving but still needs significant development.
Cornwall's healthcare faces geographic and resource challenges.

Shameful NHS Dentistry: Patients Pulling Teeth

Health Secretary Wes Streeting has declared that instances of patients pulling their own teeth due to a lack of NHS dental care are "shameful." He emphasized that while NHS dentistry is improving, it still requires substantial development and is a national challenge.

Streeting characterized the overall state of the NHS as "recovering, but not out of the woods." He noted progress in reducing waiting lists, which is also reflected in areas like Cornwall. However, he stressed that much more work is needed.

Addressing healthcare in Cornwall, Streeting acknowledged its specific challenges, including geography and limited hospital capacity. He expressed a governmental desire to increase community-based treatment options, allowing residents to receive care closer to home.