NHS dentists are set to benefit from increased fees as part of a new payment structure, the Scottish Government has announced.
The reforms also include an extra £10m from the Scottish Government to support the delivery of lab-based treatment items – such as dentures, for example.
Under the new system, the dentistry workforce in Scotland will benefit from streamlined item of service payments, by reducing the number of fees from more than 700 to 45, removing red tape and giving dentists more authority over the treatments on offer.
The new practice will also promote more patient-centred care like preventative gum disease treatment.
“We are confident that the modernised system, with increased clinical freedom for dentists, will provide longer-term sustainability to the sector and encourage dentists to continue to provide NHS care,” added Minto.
Although NHS patients that pay fees for their dentistry are likely to see an increase, the Scottish Government emphasises that this will be dependent on the overall treatment plan.
In line with the previous arrangements, approximately 40% will still benefit from free NHS dentist care.
Minto continued: “All patients will continue to receive free NHS dental examinations and I want to reassure those who are exempt from NHS dental charges – including children and young people under 26, and those on certain benefits – they will continue to receive free care and treatment. People on a low income are also eligible for support, details of which can be found on NHS Inform.”
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