From the start, the DDU reduced subscriptions for members affected by COVID-19
NewsPosted by: Dental Design 2nd April 2020
From the start, the Dental Defence Union (DDU) has supported members whose work has reduced or stopped because of the COVID-19 outbreak with adjusted subscriptions, tailored to their individual needs.
John Makin, head of the DDU said:
‘In these unprecedented times, our members have been turning to us with questions about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. We understand the strain this is putting on them, their families and their practices and acted immediately so we can give them some certainty.
‘As a not for profit mutual organisation, we know how important it is to be responsive to the rapidly changing needs of our members. With guidance from the UK CDOs suspending routine appointments it was evident that the work of most dental professionals would be reduced substantially or stopped altogether. We took immediate action to protect the interests of our members.
Hundreds of members have already contacted our expert membership service advisers to notify us of changes to their working circumstances. These members are already benefiting from reduced subscriptions and prompt refunds tailored to their individual circumstances. We understand the immediate impact of the changes on practice incomes. Depending on what’s appropriate we are suspending subscriptions with immediate effect. We are not deferring payment of refunds as we know this is important to members.
One member who did so commented:
‘Just wanted to say thanks for making the process of pausing my indemnity so trouble free for me this morning. In these uncertain times it’s reassuring to speak to someone helpful and calm, I’m sure you are extremely busy but you are doing a great job.’
John Makin continued:
‘Our dento-legal experts are helping members to understand the nuances of the rapidly changing guidance and working circumstances and are providing timely and personalised advice on how this situation impacts them. While we advise dental professionals to carefully consider all the guidance currently available before proceeding, whatever their decision, they can confidently look to us for our advice and support. Our dento-legal advice and frequently asked questions will be regularly updated as the situation develops.’
Members who need to update their contact details or change work details can do so online at My Membership or by email at membership@theddu.com.
DDU’s dento-legal guidance and FAQs are available at: www.themdu.com/coronavirus
