Outrage as Mydentist ends NHS service

Welshpool is waking up to the shocking news that the town no longer has an NHS dentist after Mydentist revealed that the service will end from April 1.

The bombshell was dropped this morning through patients receiving emails informing them of the changes, with the message also containing the ludicrous charges they will now be expecting patients to pay.

The practice on Severn Street, which has been lambasted in recent years for cancelling appointments, said that it had been “working hard” to recruit an NHS dentist but without success. But they have said they hope to resume in the future, without giving a timeline.

“Due to ongoing recruitment challenges, we are temporarily without an NHS clinician and are therefore unable to provide NHS dental treatment at this time,” said Dr Amran Mahmood Hassan Husain, from the practice.

“The practice remains committed to offering NHS dental services in the future where possible, however, at present, we do not have an NHS dentist within the practice which means Mydentist Severn Street is unable to provide NHS treatment currently. Regrettably we are unsure as yet when an NHS clinician will be able to join us.”

It means that from April 1, all patients, including children, will have to pay full price for check-ups and treatment.

They have said listed payment plans that will cost a minimum of £10.50 per month for adults and £7.60 per month for children.

Currently, a standard NHS dental check-up in Wales costs £20, which includes examination, diagnosis, preventative care, and X-rays. Check-ups are free for those under 25 or over 60, and for patients on certain low-income benefits.

But all that will change now with everyone expected to pay in Welshpool and readers have already contacted us this morning to express their anger.

One called it “outrageous”, and a second said they had already had two appointments cancelled recently anyway.

Explaining the decision in his email to patients, Dr Husain said: “Over recent years we have experienced a sustained and increasing demand for NHS appointments, which has placed significant pressure on my capacity to provide the level of care to my patients that I strive for.

“Whilst the NHS remains a reputable and vital service, the change will allow me to manage appointments more effectively, reduce waiting times, and dedicate more time and attention to providing high quality patient centred care.”