The number of dentists that don’t see themselves within the NHS in five years time has increased by 16%.
That’s according to the sixth Confidence Monitor, showing 86% of NHS dentists don’t see themselves in the NHS by 2023.
Of those intending to leave, 48% were moving to private dentistry, 28% to retire and 24% to leave the profession.
‘These results are shocking but the UDA contract is bad for patients and bad for dentistry,’ Joe Hendron, NHS dentist and owner of a former prototype practice, said.
‘The capped budget for dentistry restricts career progression and makes it more difficult for associates to become practice owners.
‘As does the recent increase in control of practices by corporate businesses.
‘This will challenge the retention of dentists in the profession.’
NHS dentistry causing concerns
The latest Confidence Monitor, carried out by Practice Plan, shows many people working in NHS dentistry are unhappy.
For example, 91% didn’t feel as if they had enough time to manage patient expectations.
And 94% didn’t feel fairly remunerated, with 91% feeling unable to carry out their work without feeling overly stressed.
Private dentists were asked how happy they felt compared to when they worked in the NHS:
- 91% felt happier they have enough time to manage patient expectations
- 88% felt fairly remunerated
- 71% felt able to carry out their work without being overly stressed.
To see more of the results, please visit: www.nhsdentistryinsights.co.uk.
Read more about the Confidence Monitor:
