President of the Government, Margalida Prohens, visits the newly humanised unit thanks to the collaboration of Acciones de Corazón, IKEA Islas Españolas, and Caribe
The dental clinic for patients with special needs at Hospital General has been providing specific and personalised care for years to individuals whose conditions make treatment in conventional dental settings challenging. This includes patients with Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, autism spectrum disorders, and others who, due to their medical conditions or lack of cooperation, require procedures under general anaesthesia to ensure safe and effective care.
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The Dental Clinic for People with Disabilities at Hospital General Treats Around 1,700 Patients a Year
Since its restructuring at the end of 2012, the clinic has experienced significant growth, recording a total of 1,696 consultations in 2024, of which 215 were first-time visits.
President Margalida Prohens, accompanied by the Minister of Health, Manuela García, and the Director General of the Health Service of the Balearic Islands, Javier Ureña, visited the service, which has proven essential in improving the oral health and quality of life of these patients in an environment tailored to their specific needs.
At Hospital General, they were welcomed by Vicente Torres, Medical Director of the Ponent Health Sector; Antonio García, Deputy Director of Nursing for Chronicity and Mental Health; Pedro Vidal, Medical Coordinator of the center; Nacho García-Moris, head of the dental clinic; and Emy Benítez, nursing care technician, who explained the evolution of the service. Representatives from Acciones de Corazón and IKEA Islas were also present, showcasing the improvements made to the clinic’s décor.
Humanization Thanks to Acciones de Corazón, IKEA Islas Españolas, and Caribe
The waiting area for pediatric patients with special needs has been redesigned with a colorful, stimulating atmosphere intended to foster creativity and free expression among children and teenagers as they wait for their appointments.
This project was promoted by the Humanisation Committee of Son Espases University Hospital and made possible thanks to Acciones de Corazón and IKEA Islas Españolas and Caribe, which designed, donated, and assembled the furniture and decorations for the space with the help of volunteers. At the inauguration, Elizabeth Gil Renteria, coordinator of Acciones de Corazón and IKEA Islas Españolas y Caribe, highlighted that the main goal was to “create a more welcoming and stimulating environment for children, adolescents, and their families using the service.”
Patients at this clinic receive biannual check-ups to evaluate and treat any dental conditions they may have. The unit also collaborates weekly with the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department of Son Espases University Hospital to care for medically complex patients, such as those awaiting transplants, individuals with haemophilia, or oncology patients, ensuring they receive comprehensive and specialised treatment.
In 2024 alone, 183 procedures under general anaesthesia were carried out at Son Espases University Hospital and the Red Cross.
The creation of this service arose from the need to provide appropriate dental care to patients unable to receive treatment in conventional clinics, whether in health centers or private practices. Such care requires a specialized, inclusive approach and knowledge of behavioral management techniques to deliver personalized treatment. The training of dentists in this field is crucial for overcoming communication barriers and ensuring an accessible and understanding environment for patients and their families.
Scientific dental societies emphasize the importance of continuous training and awareness among oral health professionals to improve care for individuals with special needs.
The dental clinic for special needs patients at Hospital General has consolidated its fundamental role in caring for a vulnerable population, adapting its services and resources to provide effective, humanized treatments and contribute to their well-being and social inclusion.