Cumnock: Knockroon dental practice closed due to lack of funding

Knockroon Dental Practice released a statement on Monday, October 16, saying the decision to close was a result of “low staff” and “under funding”.

Some patients said they were not made aware of the decision before today and were expecting to be treated this week.

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All appointments for the week commencing October 16 have been cancelled.

A date has not yet been set for the practice to reopen, with patients advised to keep an eye on the practice’s website and social media channels.

A spokesman said: “We apologize to our patients as Knockroon Dental Practice will be closed the week of Monday 16 October indefinitely.

“All meetings this week are being cancelled.

“The reason for our closure this week is a result of low staffing levels due to a lack of NHS dentists available to carry out the remaining dental procedures offered at our practice and the large number of emergency dental care we have to provide in zero rate.

“Continued under funding within the primary care dental sector and non-payment of NHS dental practices by the Scottish Government have also led us to close the practice for the time being.

“The owner of the practice is currently on annual leave spending time with her family at this time and will return the week commencing October 23, or until the situation is resolved or improved.

“Keep an eye on our website and social media and you will be contacted if you have recently had an appointment canceled by us.

“Once again we apologize to our patients for this inconvenience due to the current situation at Knockroon Dental Practice.

“We will make efforts to reach as many patients as possible in the coming weeks.”

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Although the practice has not set a date for reopening, NHS Ayrshire & Arran said the practice will be closed until Friday, October 20.

A health board spokesman said: “NHS Ayrshire and Arran Health Board have been made aware that Knockroon Dental Practice is unfortunately required to close their surgery this week at short notice due to unforeseen circumstances.

“The operation will be closed from Monday, October 16 to Friday, October 20.

“If you have a dental emergency and are experiencing toothache, you should contact the Public Dental Service on 01292 616990 for emergency help between 8am and 6pm.

“For weekends and out of hours patients should call NHS24 via 111.

“For further information or to answer any other questions, please call the Dental Management Team on 01292 616980, Monday to Friday between 8.30am and 4.30pm.

“Alternatively, please email gds@aapct.scot.nhs.uk.”

The Scottish Government has also been contacted for comment.