PEOPLE in Cornwall are avoiding healthcare to save money, according to a new report.

Independent health and social care watchdog Healthwatch Cornwall questioned more than 400 people across Cornwall late last year. More than half described themselves as ‘really struggling’ or ‘just getting by’ financially.

Half were not going to the dentist, and 40 per cent were not consulting a GP about an existing condition (rising to half among those who are ‘really struggling’).

One fifth were foregoing over-the-counter medication they usually rely on, and delaying or avoiding a health appointment because they can’t afford travel costs - three times more people than Healthwatch England reported in its national survey in March 2023.

Healthwatch Cornwall chief executive Debbie Gilbert said the “snapshot survey” represented a building block for ongoing, more detailed research due to be published in early 2025.

“We’re very aware that cost-of-living pressures are getting worse, and that issues like winter fuel payment cuts are likely to present more challenges for people already facing health and social care issues,” she added.

“Our work is all about listening to feedback from local communities and presenting our findings to NHS decision makers and other leaders so services can improve.

“It’s more important than ever to find out what’s going on, why it’s happening and how health and social care can be made better in our county.”

Healthwatch Cornwall will publish ‘The Dental Crisis in Cornwall – Your Questions Answered’ in October.

For more information follow @healthwatchcornwall on social media or visit www.healthwatchcornwall.co.uk