DT News - UK - Study raises serious concerns about UK dentistry market

Dental Tribune International

Mon. 11 June 2012

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LONDON – A recently published study has suggested that the UK dentistry market does not always work to the benefit of the patient. Among other findings, the investigators found that around half a million patients annually are given inadequate information by their dentists.

Although the study conducted by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) revealed that dental patients are largely satisfied with the services provided, the investigators commented critically on the current operation of the dental market.

“Our study has raised significant concerns about the UK dentistry market which need to be tackled quickly in the interest of the patients. All too often patients lack access to the information they need,” said John Fingleton, OFT Chief Executive.

According to the study, NHS patients often do not receive clear and accurate information in order to make informed decisions about their dentist’s choice and their entitlement to particular dental treatments on the NHS.

Almost 40 per cent of NHS dental patients reported that no leaflets or posters providing information on NHS charges were available at their dentist. More than 80 per cent of the patients said that they had not received a written treatment plan and 12 per cent had not received any information about their dental treatment.

Each year, almost seven million UK adults receive dental treatment, including expensive treatment, without having been given any information regarding the costs beforehand, the investigators estimated.

The investigators also criticised that patients are currently unable to access dental hygienists, dental therapists or clinical technicians without a referral from their dentist.

“We consider that these restrictions are likely to dampen competition in the dentistry market, reduce innovation, limit patient choice and lead to inefficient use of resources in the provision of dental treatment,” they concluded.

The OFT recommended that NHS commissioning bodies enforce the existing rules that require dentists to provide timely, clear and accurate information about prices and available treatment options. They further urged the General Dental Council to remove the restrictions that prevent patients from making appointments with dental care professionals directly.

The study was completed in September 2011 and published at the end of May by the OFT on the department's website.

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