The CDO is calling on practices to help shape the future NHS dentistry model by completing a survey on treatment items.
The chief dental officer (CDO) for Scotland, Tom Ferris, has issued a letter encouraging those who have not already done so, to complete the survey on the list of treatment items.
The survey will remain open until 23:45 on 31 July 2022.
The letter also contains further information on the dental reform advisory group.
‘It is essential that we hear the views of as many members of the dental team as possible’
The survey is important as the results will give the Scottish Executive he better understanding of dental activity in Scotland in order to frame its dental contract reforms.
Tom Ferris said: ‘As I am sure you will be aware, the Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care, Humza Yousaf MSP, wrote to all NHS dental teams a few weeks ago.’
In the letter, he set out our first steps in the wider engagement programme with the sector. This included a survey on the possible list of treatments for inclusion in a future NHS model.
‘It is essential that we hear the views of as many members of the dental team as possible, so I would encourage those who have not yet completed the survey to take the time to do so.
‘I would also ask that you share this information with your wider dental team.
‘If you would like to take part in the survey, the list of treatment items can be viewed on Scottish Dental and the survey can be completed at this link.’
Opportunity for change
The survey will remain open for responses until 23:45 on 31 July 2022.
He went on: ‘I would like to reassure you that this survey will not be your only chance to feed in to the reform process. Our intention is for this to be an iterative process as we move through the reform.
‘Once we have reflected on the responses from this survey we will make adjustments to our proposals and if required we will go out again to the whole sector for views.
‘The Cabinet Secretary also indicated that we will be setting up a NHS dental reform advisory group.
‘I am keen to ensure that this group has members with as wide a range of experience as possible and would strongly encourage any members of the dental team who are interested in being involved to nominate themselves.
‘In the Cabinet Secretary’s letter it asks that, dental contractors should be at least 70% NHS committed, and your practice should likewise be at least 70% NHS.
‘I would encourage everyone to take this opportunity to share your views and help us shape the future NHS dental model.’
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