NAO concern over NHS dentistry reform, UK

Main Category: Dentistry
Article Date: 25 Nov 2004 - 15:00 PDT

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Proposed dentistry reforms may fail to improve the service, according to the National Audit Office (NAO).

The NAO has raised concerns that plans to shake-up NHS dentistry could cause dentists to offer less services to patients.

In particular, the watchdog feared that Government changes to the way dentists are paid could directly lead to dentists reducing their commitment to NHS patients.

The reforms mean that dentists will receive set NHS contracts to provide services for a set population instead of being paid per treatment. The Government argues this will encourage dentists to stop over-treating people and focus on preventing poor oral health instead.

However, Karen Taylor, health director at the NAO, said: "There are clear compelling reasons for why we need change."

"But there are concerns that unless the risks are sorted out quickly, the intended benefits of the new system will not be realised."

Last year, a review by the Department of Health found there was a national shortage of 1,850 dentists, and only half the population is currently registered with dentists.
http://www.hda-online.org.uk

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