Enhanced Dental Care Access for NSW Patients

AUSTRALIA: Over 5,100 patients have received vital dental care at Campbelltown Hospital’s Dental Centre since its launch 15 months ago. 

This milestone marks a significant advancement in providing free dental services to eligible residents of Campbelltown, Camden, Bankstown, Fairfield, Liverpool, Wingecarribee, and Wollondilly, offering access to public emergency, general, and specialist oral health services within their communities.

Advancing Local Oral Health Services

The state-of-the-art Dental Centre, equipped with 20 chairs, has been instrumental in delivering specialiSed treatments to 276 patients and providing emergency and general treatments to 5,103 patients over the past year. 

The facility’s presence means more accessible care, reducing the need for referrals and travel to tertiary centres outside south-western Sydney.

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Minister’s Recognition and Commitment

Ryan Park, NSW Health Minister, joined forces with Member for Campbelltown, Greg Warren, and Chief Health Officer Dr. Kerry Chant to commemorate Dental Health Week with a tour of the flagship facility. Park acknowledged the Centre’s crucial role, stating that it “delivers state-of-the-art dental care closer to home for those who need it most.” 

Poor oral health’s link to chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes emphasises the significance of accessible dental facilities like Campbelltown’s.

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Transforming Local Healthcare Services

Greg Warren echoed the sentiment, emphasising the substantial enhancement in healthcare services within south-western Sydney. 

The Centre’s impact has transcended mere treatment, serving as a training ground for the next generation of oral health clinicians. Dr Kerry Chant praised the Centre’s dual role as a treatment hub and an educational institute, highlighting its contribution to shaping the future of oral healthcare professionals.

Elevated Patient Experiences and Reduced Wait Times

Amanda Larkin, Chief Executive of the South Western Sydney Local Health District, expressed pride in the Centre’s remarkable achievements. Patients’ experiences and wait times have significantly improved, signalling a commitment to delivering timely and high-quality dental services to eligible residents in the region. Notably, all patients accessing dental services in the South West Sydney Local Health District experienced treatment within the recommended waiting time.

Comprehensive Scope of Services

The Dental Centre’s services encompass a broad spectrum, catering to patients with special needs, paediatric dentistry, and oral surgery. Its contribution aligns with this year’s Dental Health Week’s theme—exploring the correlation between oral health and chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s Disease, adverse pregnancy outcomes, lung conditions, and inflammatory bowel disease.

As Campbelltown Hospital’s Dental Centre reaches this landmark, it symbolises a significant step towards advancing oral healthcare access, reducing disparities, and ensuring a healthier future for the community.