- Clinic designed to the meet the unique dental care requirements of people with complex special needs
- Purpose-built clinic ensures effective and comfortable treatment and care
- Fully accessible single-storey building, centrally located and close to public transport
Western Australia's new $6.1 million Special Needs Dental Clinic (SNDC) has officially opened in Salter Point, setting a new benchmark for inclusive and accessible oral care.
The purpose-built clinic provides specialised care for patients who may experience difficulties accessing mainstream dental services, due to developmental, intellectual, or physical disabilities.
Some people may face physical barriers when visiting a standard dental surgery or even sitting in a dental chair to receive treatment. Others may experience severe communication and behavioural challenges, swallowing difficulties, and an inability to understand or follow instructions.
Built by McCorkell Constructions and designed by SPH, the SNDC has tailored strategies to manage the unique requirements of each patient, while providing excellent oral health care.
The building was designed in consultation with consumers, carers, clinicians, and accessibility experts to ensure it would meet the complex needs of both patients and their support networks.
Soft lighting features throughout the clinic and noise-reducing materials have been incorporated in the overall design to create a calming environment in which patients feel empowered.
A safe, outdoor area is available as an alternative waiting area for people who may feel dysregulated indoors.
Patients can be assessed from their vehicle if they are unable or unwilling to go into the clinic. This initiative was strongly supported by stakeholders during the consultation process.
As stated by Health Infrastructure Minister John Carey:
"This new clinic was purpose-built to provide quality dental care to people with special needs, and it's great to see members of our community now benefiting from this carefully designed project.
"It represents a $6.1 million investment by the Cook Labor Government, which is rolling out an ambitious $3.7 billion health infrastructure program."
As stated by Health Minister Meredith Hammat:
"Our investment in a Special Needs Dental Clinic is helping to ensure access to oral health care for people who require special facilities or services.
"This purpose-built initiative reflects the voices of people with lived experience and highlights what can be achieved when design, compassion and clinical excellence come together.
"The Special Needs Dental Clinic is part of our government's commitment to equitable access to oral healthcare for all Western Australians."
As stated by South Perth MLA Geoff Baker:
"The Special Needs Dental Clinic reflects the importance of providing quality dental care to our community.
"The new clinic has been designed to take advantage of South Perth's variety of amenities and transport options and will be of great benefit to the wider Western Australian community.
"The facilities' design and services have been developed using feedback from those who are most in need of specialised care and support, to ensure that the right level of care is available to all."
