Dave Thompson MSP

Highlands & Islands SNP MSP Dave Thompson yesterday (Thurs.) raised the troubling issue of attracting NHS dentists to relocate to the north of Scotland, particularly Skye and Lochalsh.

During Health and Wellbeing Question Time yesterday in the Parliament Mr Thompson sought reassurance from Public Health Minister Shona Robison that every possible incentive was being provided to NHS dentists in the Highlands & Islands region in order to reduce the lengthy waiting lists currently faced by many patients.

Mr Thompson said: "One constituent told me recently that the waiting list at Dunvegan dental clinic on Skye is around 350.  When I raised the issue with NHS Highland, it was suggested that the constituent could travel to the practice in Acharacle - 95 miles and a ferry trip away in Lochaber - which was taking on NHS patients.

"In light of this totally unacceptable situation I was heartened to hear that a lot of action was being taken and welcome what is being done so far to alleviate the situation, including recent investment in a modern two-surgery dental clinic in the new health centre in Kyle of Lochalsh which opened in 2008.  I also welcome the Minister's confirmation of capital in place to build a four-surgery dental facility in Portree, anticipated to open in late-2010.  And though it was good to hear of the relocation of two existing surgeries in Portree to temporary accommodation, it is crucial to keep this matter to the fore and recruit more NHS dentists to the north.  More facilities are certainly needed, but they cannot operate without enough permanent, qualified dentists to man them.

Note:

For the full transcript of yesterday's Health and Wellbeing Question Time see here.