DUMFRIES and Galloway Health Board is preparing to set up its own
dental surgery in Stranraer after the withdrawal of NHS services by the
town's four private dental practices.
After considering a report on the situation at its meeting yesterday,
the board is to look for suitable premises.
They will also seek approval from Scottish Secretary Ian Lang for a
salaried dental service with two dentists.
Since the private dentists stopped treating NHS patients last summer,
a free emergency service for patients has been provided by the health
board's community dentists. For other treatment, they have either to
register privately or find a dentist outwith the town.
''We cannot allow this situation to continue,'' said board chairman
Jim McIntyre. We have a duty to ensure proper dental care is made
available under the NHS.''
Mr Les Callaghan, the board's assistant general manager, said: ''The
report of the Bloomfield inquiry into dentists' remuneration from the
NHS is expected to be made public soon.
''We want to be ready to open a surgery in Stranraer if the findings
do not solve the dental dispute. If we do go ahead with our own service,
patients will be charged the normal NHS fees.''
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