McGimpsey to bring in tailor made dental contract in Northern Ireland

The Minister for Health has said he wants to introduce a bespoke contract for dental services in Northern Ireland.

Michael McGimpsey was speaking during an Assembly debate about the delivery of dental services here.

The Minister said the contract, which was introduced in England and Wales last year, would not be extended to Northern Ireland. He said the new bespoke dental system would be piloted here next year.

“I have asked for a locally developed solution. Negotiations to secure a tailor made contract have already started between my Department and the British Dental Association.

“The contract which will move away from the current way we pay dentists is part of the Miscellaneous Provisions Bill which was given second reading in this House recently. Subordinate legislation is also needed.”

Addressing the drift towards private practice which a lot of people needing dental services are currently experiencing the Minister said:

“Two million pounds of recurrent funding has been agreed to ensure that local dentists can provide treatment for local people as part of the Health and Social Care system and not force people into expensive private care plans.

“The Health Boards are also looking at ways of employing salaried dentists in areas where there have been problems accessing services.

“I can assure Members and the public that all possible steps will be taken to ensure that dental treatment is available under the Health and Social Care system to those entitled to and wishing to avail of it.”

NOTES TO EDITORS:

1. Dental services are delivered in two ways in Northern Ireland:

• The bulk of dentistry is delivered by High Street dental practices. Dentists are paid fees for each registered patient and for each item of treatment given. Non-exempt patients pay 80% of the fees, up to a maximum amount. Dentists have a financial incentive to provide treatment; greater volumes equals greater income. There are approximately 740 independent practitioners working from 361 practices across the four Boards.
• The second way is through the Community Dental Service, which is a Trust-based salaried service dealing with individuals who are unable to use the high street dentist, such as children with learning disabilities. They also provide oral health promotion and school screening.

2. Private practice is also available to patients willing to pay for dental care or through private insurance schemes, such as Denplan.

3. Media enquiries to DHSSPS Press Office 028 9052 2841 or out of hours pager (after 5pm) 07699 715440.