Commons Sense

Hansard-based summaries and metrics

NHS Dental Contract 2022-12-06

2022-12-06

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Questions & Answers

Q1 Direct Answer
Scott Benton
▸ Context
The MP is concerned about the progress in negotiating a new NHS dental contract to improve access and quality of care.
What progress has been made on negotiating a new NHS dental contract? The number of dentists doing NHS work last year increased by 2.3%, but more needs to be done to address the issue.
Neil O'Brien
In July, we made some initial changes to the reformed system to support NHS dentistry. We have invested an extra £50 million, reformed the contract to create more UDA bands to better reflect fair costs of work, and introduced a minimum UDA to help practices with low levels.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2 Partial Answer
Scott Benton
▸ Context
The MP is concerned about the estimated 25,000 constituents who do not have an NHS dentist and seeks a more comprehensive solution.
Will the Minister consider funding subsidies to underprivileged areas such as Blackpool to attract new dentists? The changes made last week were steps in the right direction but are insufficient. Constituents lack access to dental care.
Neil O'Brien
Absolutely; my hon. Friend and I have talked about this. We are looking urgently at payment models and measures to address struggling areas. Commissioning of dentistry will come down to a more accountable local level in April, and we need to build on that.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Specific funding subsidies to underprivileged areas were not addressed.
Response accuracy
Q3 Partial Answer
Mary Foy Lab
City of Durham
▸ Context
The MP's constituents report issues such as DIY dentistry, missing teeth, and children in pain due to lack of access. The British Dental Association believes current plans are insufficient.
When will the Government put in adequate funding and reform so that people in Durham can get dental care they need? The new NHS plans do not go far enough to halt decay in provision.
Neil O'Brien
We are increasing the number of dentists doing NHS work and the amount of work being done. We are taking steps for longer-term building of NHS dentistry, with an increase from 810 to 970 dental school places in 2021. Secondary legislation was laid on 11 October to allow more flexibility for foreign dentists to practise.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Specific funding and reform timelines were not addressed.
Response accuracy