NHS patients in Northern Ireland are facing a tough time as over 53,000 patients have been removed from dentist lists over the past two years. BBC News NI has revealed that 114 dentists have given up their NHS contracts to the Department of Health during 2023 and 2024, leading to a significant shift towards private practices. With only two out of 360 dental practices in Northern Ireland remaining fully NHS, patients like Peter Corkish are left shocked by the sudden change.
Data collected by BBC News NI indicates a steep increase in the number of NHS patients being removed from dental practices, with 12,924 patients being removed in 2023 and a staggering 40,980 removed last year. This has resulted in 192,780 fewer patients being registered with dentists in Northern Ireland by January this year, including those who simply lapsed in attending appointments and were deregistered. Many patients are now being encouraged to sign up for private dental payment plans, increasing the financial burden on individuals like Mr. Corkish and his wife.
On the other hand, Kegan Lewis, the owner of the only dental practice in Dungiven, County Londonderry, is grappling with a surge in demand for NHS practices as more practices shift towards private services. Ms. Lewis acknowledges the financial strains of operating an NHS dental practice, as the fees set by the Department of Health often fall short of covering operational costs. Patients like Dorothy Hegarty also express their preference for NHS care over private services due to the perceived affordability and accessibility issues associated with private care.
The British Dental Association (BDA) has highlighted the escalating costs faced by dentists in delivering NHS services, warning that many practices are facing financial instability. Despite a £9 million investment in dental services in Northern Ireland last year, the BDA deems it insufficient and is calling for further reforms in payments made to dentists. Dr. Ciara Gallagher, chair of the BDA’s Northern Ireland committee, underlines the need for immediate action in addressing the financial challenges faced by dentists, emphasizing the urgent need for reform to ensure the viability of dental businesses and continued access to dental care for patients
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