Dental services relocated during hospital works

A dental practice in the north of the Isle of Man has temporarily moved about 16 miles (25.7km) away while its base hospital undergoes renovation.

The Smile Dental Practice has moved all services from Ramsey and District Cottage Hospital (RDCH) to Manx Care's Hillside Dental Practice in Douglas.

The duration of the relocation has not been confirmed, but the island's healthcare provider previously said refurbishment works at the hospital were expected to finish by the end of April.

During the relocation period, appointments with Smile Dental Practice will take place at Hillside Dental Practice on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

The full Smile team will be present on these days. On Mondays and Fridays, when the dentist in not available, the receptionist will be on hand.

A shuttle bus will also run from Ramsey to the Central Community Health Centre in Douglas on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

A number of services normally delivered at RDCH have been temporarily relocated while the remedial work is carried out following a pest control issue.

"We understand this situation may be frustrating, but this decision was completely out of our control," a Smile Dental Care representative said in a post on the practice's Facebook page.

"This arrangement will remain in place for the foreseeable future until the works at RDCH are completed, therefore all upcoming appointments will now take place at this location."

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