Closed Corporate Group Revived - NHS Services on Hold
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- Published: Friday, 09 August 2024 12:04
- Written by Tony Jacobs
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A practice on the South coast that was suddenly closed down when its corporate owner failed, is to reopen. In July 2024 the Astradent group suddenly closed its portfolio of 8 practices including Brunswick Place Dental in Southampton.
At the time the local press carried interviews with people concerned by the closures, including some patients that were left stranded mid treatment.
Then at the beginning of August the Southern Daily Echo had some good news. It reported that the practice had changed hands, with a sign on the door of the Southampton practice reading: “Under new ownership. Damira Dental Studios.”
On the Damira website, Brunswick Place Dental is now listed as one of their locations. At the time of publication no official opening date had been set, however it was stated that patients who were mid-treatment during the unexpected closure would be contacted by August 15th
Three days later there was some less positive news, with the same paper explaining that the practice would not be offering NHS appointments. In the absence of an NHS contract a spokesperson told the Echo that "While we are working hard to secure an NHS contract, we regret to inform you that we cannot provide NHS services at this time.” They added that Damira were committed to offering NHS services in the future.
In the meantime to honour existing patients, check-ups and emergencies were being offered at a special reduced private fee of £31. Existing patients were advised to call NHS 111, while for those with specific queries about the former owners or care received at their sites, an NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight email address was provided.
Dr Anushika Brogan, CEO and Founder of Damira Dental Studios said: "We are pleased to announce the planned acquisition of Astradent Dental Group and look forward to reopening its clinics as part of Damira Dental Studios.
"Unfortunately, with Astradent having ceased trading, the new provider requires its own contract to offer NHS services. Rest assured, we are in active discussions with local NHS commissioners and expect further guidance soon.”
Damira now has 42 practices and can trace its history back to 2003. Patients who have in recent years seen ownership of Brusnwick Place and some of the other former Astradent sites, switch from MyDentist to Astradent, and now to Damira, will hope that the practices now enjoy a period of stability. The Damira website offers patients the opportunity at many of its practices to register and join the practice’s NHS waiting lists.
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