What to do with the children? It’s a dilemma that many practices transitioning from NHS to private practice face. In this podcast, Practice Plan Sales support manager, Michelle Hardy, outlines three options to handle the sometimes sensitive issue of how to charge for children in private practice.
The most frequently chosen option is an age banded plan, which sees different prices set according to the age of the child. This is often structured along the lines of ages zero to six years, free of charge as children in this age group take up very little time or resources.
Older children can then be divided into two groups– six to 12 years, and 13 up to 18. Fees for the younger of these groups are usually nominal and kept as low as possible. However, teenagers need more time and attention. This should be reflected in the membership fees.
Practices can structure these plans in a number of ways. For example, it may include examinations only, with any treatment charged separately, or they could include some hygiene support which would then have a bearing on the price charged.
Rule of thumb
Another option is to base your plan on clinical need rather than the child’s age. Whether you choose to offer examinations only on your plan, or whether you opt to include some, or all treatment is up to you. It’s your practice’s plan so you decide.
Finally, if you need to keep the monthly fee as low as possible you could base your plan on what the UDA value would have been. As a rule of thumb, that is two UDAs per child per year plus admin fees.
If you’re considering your options away from the NHS and are looking for a provider who will hold your hand through the process whilst moving at a pace that’s right for you, why not start the conversation with Practice Plan on 01691 684165, or book your one-to-one NHS to private call today.
Going to the Dentistry Show London on 7 – 8 October? Why not pop by stand H42 for a chat?
