Call for more orthodontist funding in rural Wales
A mother whose daughter had to wait five years for a brace has called on the Welsh government to plough more money into orthodontic treatment in rural areas.
Artist Kim James-Williams, from Aberystwyth, Ceredigion, said she had to travel to Carmarthenshire and Welshpool, Powys, for her daughter to receive treatment.
Hywel Dda health board's average waiting time for a referral appointment is nearly two-and-a-half years, according to the Health and Social Care Committee.
The Welsh government said it is working with health boards to improve the situation.
"It's an unnecessarily stressful situation to have quite simple treatment," Ms James-Williams said.
"I think the solution is to recognise Aberystwyth is quite a big place with a lot of children... you could fund an orthodontic practice."
Hywel Dda admitted the waiting list is long and it is trying to speed up the process to secure first appointments.
Ceredigion Plaid Cymru AM Elin Jones said she has written to Health Minister Mark Drakeford asking him to consider investing more money.
17 Mar 2015
- From the section Wales