Mick Armstrong has been re-elected to BDA’s Principal Executive Committee (PEC) as the representative for the Yorkshire and Humber region. Also re-elected were Northern region - Paul Blaylock, South West - Nigel Jones, UK-wide - Paul Woodhouse. Elected unopposed for Northern Ireland was Peter Crooks. The new members will take office for three years in January 2019.
No comments
The Department for Health and Social Care has announced a consultation into indemnity cover for healthcare professionals who are not covered by existing or proposed state-backed schemes. They say that there are concerns that the current arrangements could prevent patients getting appropriate compensation and put healthcare professionals at risk of being personally liable for the costs of claims.
Speaking in the House of Commons, Matt Hancock Secretary of State for Health and Social Care promised that before Christmas, the Government would bring forward a long-term (10 year) plan for the NHS and outline how the additional funding promised by the Chancellor would be spent. Answering questions, he said he would listen to suggestions to get (the dental contract) right.
Community Health Councils in Wales have reported that benefits claimants are being put off going to see a dentist due to confusion over what free treatment is available and have said the system needs to change. Some patients have faced £100 fines after wrongly filling in claim forms. The Welsh Government said it was considering simplifying the process.
The Ipswich Star reports that Community Dental Services CIC, who operate eight clinics across Suffolk, have recruited Basil, a six year-old beagle, to offer comfort and distraction for anxious patients. Senior dental nurse, Jacci Plant, who is Basil’s owner, had the idea to train as a pet therapy practitioner.
The BDA says child tooth decay epidemic needs more than unfunded gimmicks. The Association has slammed government inaction on children’s oral health, as the latest figures reveal 45,000 children and teenagers underwent procedures to remove teeth last year. BDA Chair Mick Armstrong said: “Ministers have not put a penny of new investment into early years prevention.”
Read more: BDA slams Government inaction over children’s oral health