A new mobile dental clinic in South Auckland is set to provide dental assessments, treatment, and oral health education for up to 3,000 children each year.
“Ensuring all children have access to timely, quality healthcare is a priority for the Government,” said Heath Minister, Simeon Brown.
“Expanding dental services and offering early access to oral healthcare, close to home, is key to improving overall oral health. About 50% of children waiting for dental care in the Auckland region live in the Counties Manukau area.
“By taking these services directly to local neighbourhoods and community events, we can address many of the barriers that prevent children from receiving appropriate oral healthcare in a timely manner.”
Mr Brown said early access and education were key to preventing a number of dental issues and reducing the chance of children needing treatment under anaesthetic in hospital.
“I know how important it is to set children up early for a healthy future, which is why initiatives that provide community care in a setting closer to home are so important.”
“I’m pleased for the thousands of children who will be able to benefit from this mobile dental clinic in the future, ensuring timely and quality access to oral healthcare for the South Auckland community,” Mr Brown said.
