Overview
The arrangements for providing NHS dentistry are covered by the National Health Service (General Dental Services) (Scotland) Regulations 2010 and NHS Scotland Primary Care Announcement (PCA) letters: PCA(D)(2010)4, PCA(D)(2010)6 and PCA(D)(2010)4 and 6.
This advice provides guidance on the main regulations and terms and conditions of service for working in the NHS general dental services (GDS) in Scotland. You cannot impose a fee or set conditions for patients wanting NHS treatment, including accepting children for NHS care only if the parents attend privately or membership of a practice toothbrush club. Nor can you ask for voluntary donations to enable the continuation of NHS care. Such actions are a serious breach of the GDS terms of service and may result in a referral to the GDC.
You provide or assist with the provision of care and treatment to secure and maintain the oral health of the patient. A patient registered under continuing care or capitation arrangements is entitled to continued access to NHS treatment, emergency cover, written treatment plans and, where necessary, an estimate of the costs, free replacement of certain restorations which fail within a year, and (generally) three months’ written notice if you withdraw this service.