Manx Care says it expects to eliminate the dental list by the end of this financial year.
In a blockbuster announcement, it says itself and the DHSC have also secured additional dental services for the north.
Five out of seven NHS dental providers are signing up to the new contract.
A total of 5,695 patients will now be progressed from the NHS dental waiting list to be seen at a practice, which health bosses say reduces the waiting list immediately by over 93%.
Manx Care’s CEO, Teresa Cope said: “This marks the first in several transformative steps for NHS dental services on-island.
“By working collaboratively with our dental providers and investing strategically, we are not only reducing the waiting list but also laying the groundwork for a more accessible, consistent and sustainable system.”
Agreement
Herman Van Rooyen, owner of dental practices in Douglas, has said: “I’m pleased that we’ve now reached agreement on a new contract that should significantly improve dental care accessibility.
“This new contract represents an important step toward uniting our dental community. It’s important to note that this contract marks the beginning, not the end, of our improvement journey.”
Landmark
Minister for Health and Social Care, Claire Christian, added: “This is a landmark moment for dental care on the Isle of Man. This is a testament to the commitment of our dental professionals and the strength of our new approach.
“These changes will ensure that more people can access timely, high-quality dental care, no matter where they live on the island.”
Patients who are being allocated a place will be contacted directly by their assigned provider over the coming months. All patients will be seen by the end of March 2026.
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