New dental practice for Stornoway?

NHS Western Isles has confirmed to the Gazette it has been approached by a General Dental Practitioner keen to open a new practice in Stornoway.

A spokesperson said: “Negotiations to bring this service here are still at a planning stage, and both Comhairle Nan Eilean Siar and NHSWI are exploring ways to support this proposal. This would represent an important development for the Island, which has been without an Independent Dentist since the retirement of Mr Kenneth MacDonald.

“The new practice would offer the full range of NHS treatments, but could also provide some private options not available through Health Board dentists. NHS regulation means that patients cannot ‘pre-register’ with a clinic which is not yet open. However, NHSWI does keep a list of patients seeking to register, and would assist in arranging the swift registration of those patients with a new practice.”

It is reported that should the practice be approved it could set up home in the former premises of Wee W in Stornoway’s Cromwell Street.

The Comhairle confirmed interest in the property this week.