Potential Changes Ahead for East Surrey’s Children’s Dental Services

East Surrey Hospital’s specialist dental services for children with special needs are at risk, as the Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust explores options including relocation, off-site movement, or service decommissioning. This potential change could impact local access to essential dental care for vulnerable children. 

Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust (SASH) currently provides crucial dental services at East Surrey Hospital for children with complex needs. The department not only treats severe dental issues but also offers specialist training for health professionals. Concerns have been raised due to the department’s current facilities at the hospital, which, while compliant with fire safety regulations, are deemed unfit for long-term use. The British Dental Association emphasizes the importance of maintaining these services for planned and urgent care vital to the local community.