The government has a ‘moral duty’ to support communities that need access to NHS dentistry.
This according to the minister of state for care Stephen Kinnock, who spoke today at the BDIA Dental Showcase in London.
He acknowledged the need for contract reform, adding that the government wants to work with the dental profession for the ‘best possible outcomes’.
‘I want us to work together to ensure that we reform the contract so that every penny is used to drive efficiency, productivity and the best possible outcomes,’ he said.
‘History has shown time and again when the dental contact contract changes, there are often rapid and dramatic changes in the type of care that is delivered and the number of patients seen.
‘And this has huge implications for which patients get care, what types of care are delivered and what it costs. So we really must get this right.’
He added: ‘Fundamental contract reform is a significant piece of work that I don’t take lightly.’
‘I am committed to securing the best possible financial framework for NHS dentistry. We are not kicking these issues into the long grass.’
Stephen Kinnock, minister of state for care
He highlighted that there is much to be positive about: ‘When you look at the landscape of NHS industry in this country, there are plenty of things that are actually going well for people who can see an NHS dentist. Nine out of 10 report feeling satisfied or very satisfied with the support that they receive.
‘This is testament to your hard work and quality of care. I’d like to say thank you not just on behalf of the government, but also all of us who are patients. ‘
In recent weeks, the government has introduced a number of policies, including a supervised toothbrushing scheme for children and 700,000 additional emergency dental appointments.
NHS dental contract has ‘no quick fix’
He added: ‘We must never lose sight of the guiding principle that the people who depend on NHS dentistry are those who need us most. Above all, that is the lens through which we must view contract reform.
‘The government has a moral duty to support those individuals and communities that need us the most. Any arrangement must be fair – to patients, to practitioners, and to the public purse, ensuring value for the taxpayer.
‘As a minister, I see myself positioned at the centre of a triangle. I am not only the government’s representative to the sector but also your voice within the government. As we speak, critical negotiations are taking place between us and the treasury.
‘I am committed to securing the best possible financial framework for NHS dentistry. We are not kicking these issues into the long grass.’
He also drew attention the UDA and said there is ‘no quick fix’ in looking beyond it as a foundation for NHS dentistry.
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