Support for dental therapists and hygienists during uncertain times
Featured Products Promotional FeaturesPosted by: Dental Design 2nd January 2023
One big question on everyone’s lips at the moment is how the NHS contract reform will impact dental therapists and hygienists. At this point in time, where the details of the reform are still not solidified, it can be difficult to know what to expect and how to proceed.
In response to this uncertainty, the British Association of Dental Therapists (BADT) has issued a statement to members to help guide them through this unfamiliar territory:
Caution in the face of change
BADT President, Debbie Hemington, and Chair, Fiona Sandom have urged caution to their members over the NHS contract reforms in England until the full details are clarified. Whilst being fully supportive of skill mix within the dental team, especially in regards to delivering NHS services, members must make sure they are not exposing themselves to unnecessary risk.
A major concern among BADT members right now is whether they can deliver the NHS appointments being booked for them where patients have not fist been seen by a dentist. Members have raised concerns about NHS check-ups being booked with them, often without any consultation. Currently, the BADT is seeking to clarify the details of the reforms in order to assist members on these and other matters. As such, current advice is for dental therapists and hygienists to not change their working patterns until the full details of the reforms are clear.
The widespread message of “misunderstandings” around the wording of the current contract has been disputed by the BADT, who were told explicitly in 2013 that opening an NHS course of treatment was against the regulations. As such, the BADT is working with National Health Service England (NHSE) to ensure that it is in fact now possible for dental therapists and hygienists to open an NHS course of treatment.
Administration and supply of prescription-only medications is also a hurdle, and the BADT continues to work together with the British Society of Dental Hygiene and Therapy (BSDHT) on the exemptions framework. This project has some considerable way to go and the BADT has impressed on NHSE that their input to facilitate a speedy resolution would be most welcome.
Dental therapists and dental hygienists also need to be aware that at present there is no provision to give a performer number to them, so any extra responsibilities will not contribute to an NHS pension or any other benefits for them. Indemnity costs may well rise with this change too, meaning that people in these roles will have to seek alternative cover. Plus, with dental therapists and hygienists likely to be performing more of their scope of practice, they may have to update their policies to ensure that their current indemnity will fully protect them.
The BADT is here for you
The BADT regularly updates members on any developments and continues to ensure that the best interests of all individuals within the Association are represented. With contract reforms causing confusion and raising a number of questions, being part of a like-minded community of dental therapists and hygienists is a huge benefit.
The BADT ensures that every member can have their voice heard, and offers individuals a variety of excellent perks that have been designed to help professionals to excel and grow in their careers. Membership includes access to a selection of high-quality educational resources, including members-only webinars, quarterly Dental Therapy Update Journals and discounted CPD courses.
Another priceless benefit of joining the BADT is the reassurance and guidance you receive. As an Association run by working dental therapists, the BADT has unmatched industry experience which is shared among members. Plus, members can also take advantage of access to legal and accountancy advice, making sure they have the resources they need no matter what challenges arise.
The BADT also offers members the opportunity to take advantage of unique indemnity offers in partnership with Dental Protection – a helpful resource should contract reform result in dental therapists and hygienists needing to change their indemnity to provide more detailed cover.
Keep calm and carry on
As with any big changes in dentistry, it can be easy for individuals to feel unsure of the future – especially with so much uncertainty surrounding the adjustments to the NHS contracts. By joining an Association that is here to offer support, guidance, and up-to-date information in the current situation, dental therapists and hygienists will have the peace of mind that they will know how to proceed once the solid facts of the NHS contract reforms come to light.
For more details, please visit www.badt.org.uk
Debbie Hemington- Chair of the BADT
Debbie qualified from New Cross in 1983, the year it closed, and is actually the last New Cross Therapist to graduate. She qualified as a Hygienist at Kings in 1987 and has worked continuously during this time in a variety of settings.
In 2003 she joined The Eastman as a tutor and combines that role with working in a mixed general practice where she has worked for 38 years!
Debbie has also worked the for the former London Deanery as part of the DCP tutor team commissioning post graduate education, and was the educational lead on “Wild Smile” project with Heart your Smile.
In 2012 she took part in a 2 year part time pilot scheme at Kings for Enhanced Skills in Periodontology.
She has been a BADT member for most of her career and was elected Chair in 2018 and is now President of the Association.
