Why it matters: The Dental Priority Access and Stabilisation Service (DPASS) has improved access to NHS dental care for disadvantaged groups, including those in dental pain, homeless people, children in care, and people with learning disabilities since launching in March 2024.
The details: NHS Suffolk and North East Essex Integrated Care Board commissioned the 18-month pilot to help vulnerable patients access urgent dental treatment and stabilise their oral health to prevent further problems.
The service delivered high engagement with patients from deprived areas, evidence of reduced oral disease, and positive feedback with average satisfaction scores of 8.88 out of 10.
It is available from seven dental practices in Ipswich.
What they're saying: Peter Wightman, Director of Dental, Pharmacy, Optometry and Vaccination Commissioning, said: "The Dental Priority Access and Stabilisation Service (DPASS) has demonstrated significant impact in improving access to NHS dental care for vulnerable people across Suffolk and north east Essex."
Tom Norfolk, Joint Regional Chief Dentist for NHS England East of England, added: "DPASS has been a game changer for patients who require NHS unscheduled dental care. It forms the foundation for further reforms that should improve access to NHS dental services as well as developing improved NHS dental care based on prevention."
The bigger picture: The extension comes during ongoing dental contract reform and ICB restructure, with 18 dental practices participating in the service across the region. The service also strengthened relationships between practices and the ICB, fostering collaboration and shared learning.
The bottom line: The service will continue until 31 March 2026, with access available via NHS 111 or referrals from specified health and care organisations.
