Written question WQ84125
- Asked by
- Jane DoddsLib Dem
- To be answered by
- Minister for Health and Social Services
- Tabled
- Due
- Answered
- Time to answer
- 13 days
Question
What assessment has the Welsh Government made of the increase in the number of patients that could be seen as a result of fitting air-handling equipment appropriately?
Answer
Answered by Minister for Health and Social Services
Welsh Government does not hold data on the number of Clinical Dental Service (CDS) clinics awaiting installation of air ventilation systems. The CDS is a salaried service provided directly by health boards.
Air ventilation systems can have a significant impact on reducing the amount of fallow time required between patients. However, increased throughput is dependent on whether in accordance with relevant Infection Prevention and Control guidance the patient is following the respiratory or non-respiratory pathway and the treatment being provided. For example if an aerosol generating procedure is being performed.
Welsh Government has provided £450,000 for improved ventilation in dental practices aimed at reducing the fallow time between patients. This funding was broadly matched by health boards. In addition in-year funding of up to £3m is available to health boards to improve access to NHS dentistry. Health boards have the flexibility to invest this funding in NHS general dental services or the CDS to address local needs and issues.