Following a recent press release for NHS dental patients, we would like to clarify that NHS Shetland is not responsible for the decision making of independent NHS dental providers. We are however conscious that NHS dental provision in Shetland remains extremely limited and we will continue to do all we can to support people in accessing appropriate care.
We have this week received the names of the individuals who are in the process of being de-registered from Lerwick Dental Practice. This process takes three months, so up until mid-February the practice is responsible for providing emergency care to them. Following that, the Public Dental Service (PDS) will provide emergency care. At the same time we will also, under the PDS safety net provision, put all these patients onto a waiting list for registration with NHS Shetland as their NHS dental provider.
In recent days we have had really productive discussions with the Scottish Government about the current situation and also with regard to planning for the further deregistration of NHS patients Lerwick Dental Practice has indicated will happen in 2025.
We would also like to provide some information about the Board’s role in NHS dental service provision. In understanding the relationship between Scottish health boards and independent providers, a Director of Dentistry plays a crucial role in maintaining and improving a population’s dental care. Accountable directly to the Chief Executive of the Board, the Director bears the responsibility for ensuring all dental services provided under the NHS meet the essential benchmarks of patient safety, professional standards and compliance with regulatory frameworks.
On behalf of the Health and Social Care Partnership, Jo Robinson, Director of Community Health and Social Care said: “As a senior NHS Shetland leader, the Director of Dentistry role lies in clinical governance, where they ensure that robust systems are in place to monitor and improve the quality of care provided. They review and address patient feedback, incidents, and reports from the Ombudsman, all while supporting, and overseeing, dental teams in their commitment to clinical excellence. Their leadership ensures that high standards are consistently met by all service providers and those working within them. This ensures that patient safety and service quality are maximised for people in our community accessing dental services.”
NHS Shetland remains committed to working in partnership with all stakeholders to deliver the three year Oral Strategy, and will continue to prioritise the health and wellbeing of patients in the Shetland community.
Read the previous press release here - Update for NHS dental patients – NHS Shetland