02.09.11
Dentists to be paid per patient
A new trial will see 68 dental practices work under new contracts, where they will be paid for the number of patients they care for and the health outcomes of treatments, rather than the number of treatments performed.
This is intended to increase patient access to dental care and will promote preventative dental treatments instead of focusing on activities with no specific rewards for providing high quality care. This will also allow dentists more control over how the money is spent, including key areas of prevention and education to improve the dental service.
Health Secretary Andrew Lansley said: “It is vital that patients receive high-quality dental care and we are committed to promoting good oral health and preventing dental decay, especially in children.
“The Government believes dentists should get paid for the quality of treatment they provide rather than simply for the number of treatments. This is not only better for patients, but also a better use of NHS resources. The pilot sites will test different ways of putting this approach into practice. What we learn from this process will inform the new contract.”
Professor Jimmy Steele, a member of the national steering group that developed the pilot proposals, said: “It is heartening to see the profession engaging so positively in the pilot process. Oral health has improved but the risks of decay and gum disease are still high for many people. It is now time to focus attention on achieving healthy mouths as our outcome and not just volumes of treatment provided.”
Tell us what you think – have your say below, or email us directly at [email protected]