Bathgate MP Calls for Action on ‘Dental Deserts’
In a recent session of Prime Minister’s Questions, Bathgate and Linlithgow MP, Kirsteen Sullivan, raised concerns about the issue of ‘dental deserts’ and urged the government to address the lack of accessible NHS dentistry in communities across the UK.
During the PMQs, Kirsteen Sullivan highlighted the case of Blackburn, where a dedicated dental space in the Blackburn Partnership Centre has been left unused since 2018, as NHS Lothian has been unsuccessful in securing a dental practice to operate in the facility. This situation has left local residents without essential dental care services.
Sullivan directly questioned the Prime Minister on the steps that will be taken to collaborate with devolved governments to enhance access to local NHS dentists nationwide. The Prime Minister acknowledged the gravity of the issue, noting that a significant portion of Scots face difficulties in accessing dental care, especially citing data showing a quarter of Scottish children begin primary school with tooth decay.
Kirsteen Sullivan emphasised the importance of routine dental check-ups in preventing serious health issues and saving lives, pointing out that this problem extends beyond Blackburn and affects communities across Scotland and the UK. She urged for concerted efforts between the UK and Scottish Governments to ensure that all communities have access to the necessary dental care infrastructure.
In response to Sullivan’s advocacy, the Prime Minister criticised the Scottish Government’s management of public services and committed to collaboration with devolved governments to improve children’s oral health and dental care accessibility.
Kirsteen Sullivan reiterated her determination to push for progress both locally and nationally to ensure that communities like Blackburn receive the essential dental services they deserve. She highlighted the necessity of addressing the issue to avoid leaving any community without access to vital dental care.
Insights:
It is crucial for policymakers to address disparities in healthcare access, such as the availability of dental services in underserved areas like ‘dental deserts’. Collaborative efforts between different levels of government are essential to ensure equitable access to healthcare services across the UK. By advocating for improvements in dental care accessibility, MPs like Kirsteen Sullivan play a vital role in addressing healthcare inequalities and promoting overall community health and well-being.