Some 66% of Scottish dentists believe last year’s SDR (Statement of Dental Remuneration) changes are an improvement of the previous model, a survey suggests.
Nearly nine in 10 (88%) also believe this reform cannot be the ‘final destination’ for NHS dentistry.
This survey is the first evidence from frontline dentists since the payment reform was implemented in November 2023.
The reform included significant changes to the fees provided for many treatments. It also saw the number of items on the ‘menu’ at practices slim down to 45 codes from 400.
According to the British Dental Association (BDA), the previous funding model was ‘unsustainable’ and left practices delivering care at a loss.
The survey also found that just 7% believe the SDR changes will enhance NHS dentistry for patients. In addition, 5% believe it will help to reduce oral health inequality.
Other findings include:
- One in five (22%) believe the payment reform enables a move to a preventive model of dentistry
- A quarter (26%) believe the changes have made their practices more financially sustainable
- Some 34% believe the reforms met the government’s goal of increasing clinical freedom.
No room for complacency
Following these stats, BDA Scotland has stressed that ‘there can be no complacency over the future of NHS dentistry’.
As a result, the association has sent an open letter calling the Scottish government to show it is willing to build on the reforms to ease the NHS workforce crisis.
David McColl is chair of the BDA’s Scottish Dental Practice Committee. He said: ‘Given the critical place dental services were at this verdict is welcome news, but there is absolutely no room for complacency.
‘Dentists have seen improvements, but have told us reform falls short on access, inequalities and prevention. Changes might make some practices more sustainable today, but they do not provide the foundations for a 21st century service.
‘The Scottish government has set goals on improving access and sustainability. These promises must be kept.
‘Scotland cannot have NHS dentistry without NHS dentists – and this service must be a place which can recruit and retain talent.’
Follow Dentistry.co.uk on Instagram to keep up with all the latest dental news and trends.
