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Dentist Industry and NHS Backlogs
07 February 2022
Lead MP
Andy Carter
Debate Type
Adjournment Debate
Tags
NHSTaxationEmployment
Other Contributors: 2
At a Glance
Andy Carter raised concerns about dentist industry and nhs backlogs in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
Mr Carter highlighted the decline of NHS dental services, citing figures that show a significant drop in treatment numbers due to lack of dentists willing to take on NHS contracts. He emphasised difficulties in finding local dentists for new residents and patients being forced into private care despite having paid taxes and national insurance. The MP also discussed issues such as outdated dentist lists online, lack of training places for the north of England, poor incentives under the 2006 dental contract, and problems with recruitment and staffing.
Giles Watling
Con
Clacton
Mr Watling echoed concerns about NHS dentistry access issues and highlighted Clacton's need for more local leaders with devolved budgets. He also suggested measures to increase overseas recognition of dental qualifications.
Bob Seely
Con
Isle of Wight
Mr Seely discussed the severe shortage of NHS dentists on his island and proposed several measures, including introducing a section 60 order to increase GDC discretion on recognising overseas dental qualifications, developing a UK adaptation course for experienced overseas dentists, funding an overseas registration exam catch-up programme, and accelerating changes to dental therapists' scope of practice.
Government Response
Minister Caulfield acknowledged the significant impact of the pandemic on dentistry and outlined short-term measures such as a £50 million investment aimed at tackling backlogs. She also discussed plans for long-term reform, including contract negotiations, widening dental education participation, and legislative changes to upskill dental professionals. The minister highlighted efforts to improve international dentist registration processes and mentioned consultations with the General Dental Council to expand access for overseas dentists.
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About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.