08/07/2024
Please note I will not have time to respond further on this thread. Any questions please email us at [email protected]
Dear Patients,
We understand that many of you in Axminster and the surrounding areas may be concerned and worried about the recent changes in our practice. I want to express my sincere apologies from the bottom of my heart for any distress this decision may cause you.
For several years, I have passionately advocated for changes to our NHS contract to make it sustainable and viable. Despite our best efforts, NHS England has not been able to accommodate the necessary adjustments. During this time, we have been relying on our private patients to support the NHS side of our practice.
To provide some context, the current NHS contract poses significant challenges. For instance, if a patient requires two fillings, we only receive payment for one, or 15 fillings is the same as for 3. When this system was introduced in 2006, it worked to some extent, balancing out over time. However, since then, the payments from NHS England have increased at a rate far below inflation, while the costs of dental materials have risen substantially. This has made the NHS contract unsustainable for our practice.
It deeply saddens me to step away from the NHS, as I personally believe in its values and have tried to uphold it for as long as possible, even when many other practices have moved on. However, it is crucial for me and our entire team to ensure that we can continue to provide the high standard of care that you deserve and expect. This transition will allow us to maintain a happy and positive working environment, which ultimately benefits you, our valued patients.
A few answers to some FAQs so far:
Children’s NHS Care:
- If your child is currently registered with us as an NHS patient, we will continue to see them on the same basis up to and including the age of 17.
Transition to Private Care:
- All adult NHS patients will need to join one of our Denplan Essentials options, even if you typically only see your dentist once per year. We recommend considering Plan B if your dentist usually performs your teeth cleaning at each visit.
- Joining Denplan is the only available option for current NHS adult patients.
Alternative Denplan options:
- It is possible to change Denplan option at a later date and is is also usually possible to change to Denplan Care at your next examination appointment.
Justin’s patients:
- please join Denplan through the letter and we will assign you a dentist.
We truly appreciate your understanding and support during this transition. Our commitment to your oral health remains our top priority, and we are here to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have.
Thank you for your trust and loyalty.
Warm regards,
Tim Hodges
