Stephen Morgan MP has urgently called senior members of NHS England, the Government body responsible for assigning dental contracts in the area, to Parliament.
As well as writing an urgent letter to the Secretary of State for Health and asking questions to the relevant Government department in Parliament, the Portsmouth South representative is hosting a summit following the news that three dental practices in Portsmouth are facing imminent closure. Cllr Cal Corkery, a fellow Labour councillor in the city, is also following up local concerns.
The announcement comes as a result of a business decision made by Colosseum Dental, a company owned by a Swiss investment firm.
Stephen Morgan MP said:
“Not one, not two, but three surgeries are set to close in our city. When there are so many concerns around about oral health and access to local services, the consequences of this latest development will be detrimental to local residents.
Portsmouth people shouldn’t have to travel long distances to receive vital treatment. I will not stand for this and take concerns being raised with me very seriously.
There has been a serious lack of communication from NHS England and Colosseum Dental. I find it deeply concerning that patients and local community leaders were not informed earlier in this process. The dissemination of information has been substandard, and I hope that frank, open discussions at the summit will rectify this.”
It has been reported that between 9,000 and 20,000 people will be affected by these imminent closures. Mr Morgan has already expressed concern that this may hit poor families hardest.
Stephen added:
“You might wonder if some had hoped no-one would notice three vital healthcare providers shutting their doors for the last time in our city.
The time for complacency is over. I look forward to discussions with NHS England, the Health Secretary and others in order to safeguard dental services for the people of Portsmouth.”
