Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what recent assessment her Department has made of the potential impact of health inequalities on access to (a) GP appointments and (b) dental care.

Practices should offer a range of access routes to support inclusion and offer patients the choice of contact by telephone, in person or using a secure online form. Local areas commission community dental services for those who may be unable to access dental care, such as those living in care homes.

‘Our plan for patients’, published on 22 September, sets out the immediate priorities to support individuals to live healthier lives, including improving access to health and care services. In addition, the Department continues to review how health disparities can be addressed and further information will be available in due course.