BDA: Scottish Government needs to provide resources to make OHIP aspirations a reality
NewsPosted by: Dental Design 17th July 2018
BDA Scotland has urged new Cabinet Secretary for Health and Sport Jeane Freeman to put the NHS 70th birthday investment to good use – and realise the unfunded aspirations in the Oral Health Improvement Plan (OHIP).
£2 billion in extra funding has now been made available for NHS Scotland. In an open letter dentist leaders have urged the Cabinet Secretary to provide definition on OHIP, through effective planning, timelines and provision of necessary resources.
The Chair of the BDA’s Scottish Council, Robert Donald, said:
“The Oral Health Improvement Plan sets big aspirations, but provides little detail on funds set aside to pay for them. The promise of extra NHS budget now offers a vital opportunity to secure necessary resources required for implementation.
“Meeting the needs of an ageing population and reducing oral health inequalities in Scotland are vital goals. However we are yet to see details on plans, timescales or resources to achieve them, or indeed any tangible commitment to maintain the financial viability of high street practices during a period of profound change.
“Sadly, instead of needed investment, a focus on 24 month recall intervals feels like a bid to spread a steady state budget too thinly. When oral cancer rates are surging – and early detection is key – the Scottish Government needs to reconsider. Likewise a change in tack on scale and polish looks like a cost cutting exercise.
“Prevention could reap huge dividends for Scottish patients and taxpayers. The Scottish Government needs to show it is prepared to make an effective investment in oral health.”
