Photo: Dr Abhay Gupta is moving on from Coonamble and plans are afoot for local agencies to work together to find a replacement dentist.
From 27 June 2025, the Coonamble Dental Surgery will say goodbye to Dr Abhay Gupta.
For close to two years now, Dr Gupta has been providing preventative and restorative dental services for the Coonamble community, as well as surrounding areas such as Baradine, Coonabarabran, Walgett and Lightning Ridge.
Dental Surgery operators Coonamble Aboriginal Health Service say they began recruitment as soon as they received notice of Dr Gupta’s departure.
They also began prioritizing emergency cases for clients that require immediate care.
“At the moment our Dental surgery is not taking on any new clients due to the Departure of Dr Gupta,” said CAHS CEO Phil Naden.
“However, NSW Western LHD [local health district] will still deliver regular children’s dental services and will continue to operate out of the Coonamble Dental Surgery.
“All other priority dental care is being referred to alternate dental clinics in surrounding communities.”
Past experience has proven that finding a suitable replacement is rarely quick or easy, with nationwide shortages putting dentists in high demand.
CAHS say that they are working with other local agencies to find an innovative solution.
“Our executive staff have met with Coonamble Shire Council and the local MPS to discuss a co-design approach whilst we are recruiting a new Dentist however, a community led solution has not yet been reached,” Mr Naden said.
“Coonamble Dental Surgery understand how important this service is to the community and are striving to recruit a full-time dentist as soon as possible.
“Dr Gupta has done a great job for our communities, we’ve received very positive feedback from patients.
“We are grateful for his service and, while we’re disappointed to see him go, we wish him well for his future.”