The UK Government has announced new reforms to the NHS dentistry contract, aiming to facilitate easier access to urgent care for patients.
Proposed changes are designed to incentivise dentists to undertake more NHS work and to address the foundational issues within the sector.
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The British Dental Association has reported that satisfaction with NHS dentistry is at an all-time low, with more than one in four adults struggling to receive care.
In response, the government has launched a major consultation to increase the provision of NHS dental services.
The current system often makes it less economical for dentists to accept patients requiring intricate treatments.
The proposed overhaul seeks to correct these inefficiencies and provide better incentives for dentists.
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By GlobalDataAmong the proposed measures are the introduction of a special treatment course for patients with severe gum disease or at least five decayed teeth, increased funding for denture modifications, and a mandate for dentists to offer a certain amount of urgent and unscheduled care annually.
Moreover, the government plans to implement preventative measures for children’s dental health, encompassing the application of tooth resin sealants and fluoride varnish, even without a full dental check-up.
The government’s proposals also include initiatives to make dental staff feel more valued and integrated within the NHS framework.
The announcement follows the government’s 10-Year Health Plan, which outlined steps to enhance dental access, encompassing a need for newly qualified dentists to work in the NHS for at least three years.
UK Health Minister Stephen Kinnock said: “These reforms will bring common sense into the system again, attracting more NHS dentists, treating those with the greatest need first, and changing the system to make it work.”
The consultation will run for six weeks, concluding on 19 August.
Last month, the UK Government announced the Oliver McGowan Code of Practice for autism care.
