MP Henry Tufnell has launched a new survey calling on constituents across Mid and South Pembrokeshire to share their experiences of accessing NHS dental care.

The move comes amid growing concern about the availability and accessibility of NHS dentistry in the area.

Many local residents have contacted Mr Tufnell to raise the alarm over long waiting times, difficulty registering with an NHS dentist, and the lack of available appointments.

NHS dental services in Pembrokeshire are commissioned and managed by Hywel Dda University Health Board, and Mr Tufnell is calling for urgent improvements to the current system.

“I know many constituents are struggling to access an NHS dentist,” said Mr Tufnell.

“It’s clear that significant reform is needed, and your experiences will help strengthen the case for change.”

Mr Tufnell is urging residents to complete a short online survey to share their stories and feedback. The survey can be accessed here: https://actionnetwork.org/.../mid-and-south...

This new survey builds on the success of Mr Tufnell’s in-depth health care survey conducted last year, which received hundreds of responses and played a key role in shaping local health discussions.

That survey brought to light widespread concerns around GP access, repeat prescription delays, and poor communication between primary care providers and patients.

As a direct result, Mr Tufnell:

• Raised these issues with the Chief Executive of Hywel Dda University Health Board in a formal meeting;

• Secured commitments for improved GP recruitment initiatives;

• Advocated for clearer communication from surgeries to patients regarding changes in service delivery.

“The community's engagement in last year’s survey had real impact,” Mr Tufnell continued.

“Now, I want to do the same for dentistry. By working together, we can push for better outcomes and hold decision-makers to account.”

The findings of this new survey will be presented directly to the contract managers at Hywel Dda University Health Board.

“I will continue to work constructively with the Health Board to push for transformative change.

“My colleagues in Welsh Government are also preparing a broader consultation on dentistry reform, and together, we are determined to see this essential NHS contract delivered effectively for the people of Pembrokeshire,” he added.

Healthcare-related issues represent 14% of all constituency casework received by the MP’s office.

A new digital service to help make it easier to find an NHS dentist was recently rolled out across Wales.

The Dental Access Portal provides a central platform for people to register their interest in NHS dentistry and for health boards to allocate places for routine NHS dental treatment.

The service will provide a clear picture of the scale of demand for NHS dental services and will mean people no longer need to call multiple dental surgeries to try to find an NHS dentist.

Health Secretary for the Welsh Government Jeremy Miles said: “Access to NHS dentistry is not where we or the public want it to be.

“This new service will help people who may not have seen a dentist for some time get access to routine NHS appointments.”