Pilots of dental contracts expected in 2011
by Guy Hiscott
Dentists’ leaders in Northern Ireland have welcomed the launch of the long-awaited consultation on piloting new dental contract arrangements. The Health and Social Care Board’s (HSCB) consultation runs until 31 January 2011.
It is expected to lead to the piloting of general dental services, orthodontic and oral surgery pilots next year with new contracts being developed for 2013 pending successful evaluation.
The proposed new system of remuneration for dentists
While pleased that progress is being made, the British Dental Association in Northern Ireland believes that much hard work lies ahead before and during the pilot phase.
Peter Crooks, chair of the BDA Northern Ireland Dental Practice Committee, said: ‘The BDA has long argued that we need new arrangements for dental care in Northern Ireland. ‘Practices need a sustainable future as businesses with a working environment for dentists and their teams which deliver the modern, preventive care our patients seek.
‘The HSCB’s consultation signals, I hope, progress towards that goal. Continued engagement with BDA Northern Ireland is the key to success. The Government needs to listen to the views of the profession and work with the BDA to ensure the future success of pilots.’
The consultation document is available at www.hscboard.hscni.net.
