See https://www.healthwatch.co.uk/news/2024-11-20/publics-confusion-over-right-register-nhs-dentist for full article
Public’s confusion over ‘right’ to register with an NHS dentist
News – 20 November 2024
Almost two decades after the public lost their right to register permanently with an NHS dentist, our new research shows two-thirds believe this right exists. Find out more about our findings and calls for dental reform.
We have published the first-ever research on people’s understanding of NHS dentistry and what they want from the service as the government develops its ‘Dental Rescue Plan’.
The poll, carried out in September by Savanta, reveals that most people in England have misconceptions about their ‘right’ to an NHS dentist and want changes to how they access dentistry.
Key findings
Over two-thirds, 68%, of respondents mistakenly believe they have the right to register with an NHS dentist as they do with an NHS GP.
When asked about their preference for getting NHS dental care, over half, 54% of 1,791 respondents said they want to be able to register with an NHS dentist as a permanent patient in the same way as they can with an NHS GP.