The way I'm reading it – first impressions

In simple terms – its back to capitation boys and girls – but with some interesting differences.
Registration – kind of makes sense.
Weighted capitation – the crappier the dental population around you – the more money you get – and vice versa – so NHS dentistry disappears from higher socio-economic groups, with better dental health, living in more affluent areas – and perhaps so do NHS dentists!
Learn to live with your QOF (quality outcome framework) score:

  • 30% of your score assessed on the feedback that patients give on their customer service experience
    • bear in mind that West Midlands PCT are piloting a PET (patient experience tracker) – a touch-screen console in the practice that allows patients to record their answers to the questions in column 1 above and a monthly target for the number of entries – no room for abuse there?
  • 60% of your score largely based on the hygienists or therapists records – so bugger the dentistry – just pay the latter 35% to run a giant maintenance machine – you might as well run the “book” on the NHS and then just refer patients for private treatment for anything more complex/expensive
    • no wonder that there is a DOH push to get hygienists and therapists registered next year
  • 10% record keeping – simple enough if you have decent practice management software

Is it me – or does this sounds as if NHS dentistry will become a £3bn a year national walk-in hygiene service?Leaving private dentists to do all the “other stuff”?
I’m OK with that.
(Just in case you missed it – the full document was downloadable from my last post)

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Chris Barrow

Chris Barrow has been active as a consultant, trainer and coach to the UK dental profession for over 20 years. As a writer, his blog enjoys a strong following and he is a regular contributor to the dental press. Naturally direct, assertive and determined, he has the ability to reach conclusions quickly, as well as the sharp reflexes and lightness of touch to innovate, change tack and push boundaries. In 2014 he appeared as a “castaway” in the first season of the popular reality TV show “The Island with Bear Grylls”. His main professional focus is as Coach Barrow, providing coaching and mentorship to independent dentistry.