Dentist failed duty of care
I am needle phobic and require sedation for extractions. I have toothache and attended the West End Manse Dental Surgery as an NHS patient to see if I could be treated. I was told that no emergency treatment was available, at anytime, on the NHS. I could be seen immediately if I pay. I agreed, under protest to pay. I explained to the dentist about my extreme needle phobia and asked to be referred to Dental Healthcare Suffolk. I had previously been referred to them by West End Manse Dental Care as they are experts in needle phobia. The dentist refused to refer me as he claimed I was now a private patient and he believed he could not refer me to an NHS facility. I spoke to Dental Health Care Suffolk who informed me that they take both private and NHS referrals. They advised me to go back to West End Manse, with the details of how to refer to Dental HealthCare Suffolk and again ask for a referral. This was on the 27th Jan. I have received a call on the 2nd Feb telling me the dentist is refusing to refer me. I now also believe I have been refused all further treatment although I have not seen this in writing. I remain in pain, don't know how to access treatment and believe the dentist has a duty of care towards me, which he is failing to deliver.