A new Healthwatch Isle of Wight survey has revealed that long waits for GP appointments and NHS dental access are among the biggest frustrations facing Islanders.
Healthwatch Isle of Wight’s latest Intelligence Report, covering the period between 13th April and 12th May 2026, found that 66% of all feedback received about local health services was negative.
Only 32% of feedback was positive, while 2% was classed as mixed or neutral.
The report highlights long waits for GP appointments as one of the most common complaints from Islanders, alongside concerns about the quality of treatment at some NHS dental practices.
Residents also raised ongoing concerns about delays accessing mental health services, as well as lengthy waits for Autism and ADHD assessments.
Dentistry and GP services generated the highest number of comments during the reporting period.
One resident told Healthwatch:
“ [I] lost my dentist of 20 years when they stopped taking NHS patients three years ago. Can’t find an NHS one on island that I can get to.”
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Another said:
“Appalling treatment from Surgery.
“It appears that you need to be able bodied and have a lot of staying power and stamina to be unwell these days.”
The report also included criticism of mental health support changes, with 1 resident describing confusion following the closure of the A2A and mental health crisis line.
However, not all experiences were negative.
A resident praised the Isle of Wight respiratory home care team, saying staff were “very kind and careful” and described the service as “excellent”.
Healthwatch Isle of Wight says it will share the findings with local healthcare providers and commissioners in an effort to improve services where concerns are being repeatedly raised.
The organisation has also launched a new survey into access to GP services across the Isle of Wight, asking residents to share their experiences of appointments, communication, online services and continuity of care.
The survey which closes on 12th June can be completed here.
