28 July 2021
Throughout August and September, Health and Community Services is recruiting volunteers to help contribute to improving the Island's dental care service as part of the Oral Health Strategy.
The aims of the strategy are to:
- Reduce the incidence of dental decay and oral cancer
- Reduce any inequalities in accessing dental care
- Ensure there are clear pathways between primary and secondary care
- Improve the experience of children and adults accessing secondary care dental services (including reduction in waiting lists)
- Provide supportive care for cancer patients and those requiring oral interventions/surgery
- Ensure that dental services are high quality and patient centred
Islanders who apply will help to design the future of the Island's dental services by taking part in focus groups and interviews, talking about their experiences and proposed plans for the service, and completing surveys.
Successful applicants will join a small group of invited individuals (between 6 and 10 people) with similar interests or experiences. A focus group usually takes around two hours. Once the information has been analysed the group may be reconvened or further questions will be asked by phone or email.
Dr Nicholas Dodds said: "This is a great opportunity for Islanders to transform and improve our dental system. We want to better understand people's dental care needs and by becoming a patient representative Islanders can help drive the future of dental care forward and keep Jersey smiling.
"Whether you are a patient, or a carer for someone who has used our services and want to help make them better, we hope you become a volunteer and take part in our focus groups and feedback sessions. Your thoughts and views are welcome."
Islanders can find out more and apply at www.gov.je/OralHealth or by contacting the Patient Advice and Liaison service (PALS) at PALS@health.gov.je or 01534 443515.
gov.je