Many questions remain about the promised Welsh dental contract reform. Practice Plan recently hosted a webinar to discuss the consultation results on reforming NHS dental services in Wales.
The session was hosted by Zoe Close, Head of Sales, and featured Lauren Harrhy, practice owner and BDA representative, along with Louise Anderson, regional support manager for south-west Wales. Their goal was to clarify uncertain aspects of the new contract during a period of significant ambiguity.
Despite efforts to stay positive, the lack of detailed information about the new contract left little room for optimism among attendees.
The removal of the Direct Access Portal (DAP) has relieved some concerns. However, issues remain regarding funding and patient care.
“So, the DAP is gone but it doesn’t mean that we can still really happily look after those green patients,” said Lauren Harrhy. “There’s only a small amount of funding allocated to look after the green patients.”
Lauren warned that funding remains limited for patients with low treatment needs, referred to as "green" patients. Extending the recall period to two years may leave many patients in limbo, struggling to access timely NHS care.
The reform's impact on patient care and funding remains unclear, with uncertainty persisting around how "green" patients will be supported under the new system.
The Welsh dental contract reform raises significant concerns about funding and access for low-need patients, with many details still unclear and unresolved.