DHSC in preliminary discussions with health service
Isle of Man residents could have to meet specific eligibility requirements to register with an NHS dentist.
Manx Care is in 'early dialogue' with the Department of Health and Social Care as it explores the possibility of introducing the restrictions.
Around 43,000 people on the Island are registered with an NHS dentist with an additional 5,800 on the waiting list.
While details remain unclear, Director of Operations Oliver Radford hinted that a means-tested approach may be an option:
Manx Care believes that if the Island adopted the UK's eligibility criteria only 18,000 residents would qualify for NHS dental care.
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