Responding to the independent report by Lord Darzi into the NHS, John Makin, head of the DDU, said:
"We welcome the government's recognition that healthcare professionals are working in a broken system. Lord Darzi’s report has shone a spotlight on the scale of the challenge the NHS faces. Every day dental professionals go to work to do the best they can for their patients, but the strain staff are under is now clear for all to see.
"A survey of our members earlier this year found that only 17% of those responding said they always felt able to deliver optimal patient care. Notably, 41% of respondents said they are planning to reduce their hours because of these pressures. If government does not take this message seriously, the coming years look set to be even more difficult for the NHS.
"Lord Darzi's report challenges the government to take a serious look at where the NHS budget is allocated. Every pound matters. We agree with Lord Darzi that the government must look at the eye watering cost of clinical negligence. In the year 2023/24, clinical negligence payments increased to £2.9 billion, which is approaching 2 percent of the entire NHS budget. If we are having a serious conversation about NHS finances, figures such as these cannot be ignored any longer."
This page was correct at publication on 12/09/2024. Any guidance is intended as general guidance for members only. If you are a member and need specific advice relating to your own circumstances, please contact one of our advisers.