Dentists told to treat for pain
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.DENTISTS who have refused to take on new NHS patients in their fight with the Government over a cut in their pay have been told to make special arrangements to treat patients in pain.
The British Dental Association yesterday wrote to all its members reminding them that they were part of a 'caring' service and that their argument was with the Government and not with patients.
In a statement yesterday the association said: 'There may be some confusion in the mind of the public as to the meaning of the result of the British Dental Association's ballot advising members not to accept new patients.
'No dentist wants to see anyone in pain not having that pain alleviated. Patients may have problems finding a dentist who will accept them for long-term continuing care; they should not have to wait a moment longer than necessary if they are in pain.'
The association has accused the Government of wanting 'privatisation by stealth' in the crisis over a 'clawback' of fees because the Department of Health decided that dentists had done too much work, pushing pay levels over agreed figures. Last week the Government announced a review of the way dentists are paid, chaired by Sir Kenneth Bloomfield, former head of the civil service in Northern Ireland.
BDA leaders will have their first meeting with Sir Kenneth within two weeks.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments