A review of the private dentistry sector has been launched by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) to ‘make sure it is working well for UK consumers’.
In November, chancellor Rachel Reeves ordered an investigation into the costs and practices of private dentistry in the UK. Reeves said ‘hidden costs, lack of transparency and overtreatment’ had impacted families in need, and that she wanted to see ‘urgent action’ to reduce prices.
The CMA is now seeking feedback from both dental professionals and consumers on subjects ranging from finding a dentist and understanding prices to knowing where to go if something goes wrong.
The scope of the study will include:
- Access to private dentistry
- Consumer choice and experience
- Treatment prices
- Business tactics and behaviour
- Competition between private dentists
- Complaint and redress mechanisms
- Sector regulation.
Depending on the responses received, possible outcomes of the investigation could include recommendations to governments to change regulation of the sector, direct action from the CMA, or new guidance to ensure businesses understand their obligations.
Dental professionals can share their views here.
‘Utterly perverse’
CMA chief executive Sarah Cardell said: ‘Going to the dentist is an important part of health and wellbeing, yet we’re concerned many may be uncertain about costs, availability, treatment options and what they’re entitled to.
‘For some, turning to private dentistry is a choice – but for many, it’s a necessity. People need clear, accessible information at the right time so they can make the right decisions for themselves and their families.
‘We want to hear directly from people across the UK about their experiences – good or bad – to help us build a clear picture of how this market is working in practice.’
The CMA said it ‘recognises the dedication and professionalism of dental professionals’ and that the investigation ‘is not a criticism of clinicians or the care they provide’.
However, British Dental Association (BDA) chair Eddie Crouch described the inquiry as ‘utterly perverse’, as ‘profits from private care are all that are keeping NHS dentistry afloat’.
‘The complex realities of delivering private dentistry’
The BDA has now pledged to ensure the CMA ‘understands the complex realities of delivering private dentistry’. The association criticised the government for ‘falsely claiming it will put money back into voters’ pockets through this investigation’ and said it had a responsibility to properly fund NHS dentistry to prevent patients from being forced to seek private care.
Eddie Crouch said: ‘The government is attempting to use this inquiry to pretend it is improving access and putting money back into voters’ pockets without spending a penny.
‘We intend to spell out the facts. We will show the CMA how private dentistry works. These are services delivering high-quality, cost-effective care that millions of families really value.
‘Those left without options, who have felt forced to go private, are there entirely because of choices made by the treasury.’
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