Many NHS dental practices are exploring the addition of private dental services to ease financial pressures and broaden patient care options, according to Amy Hansford, Regional Support Manager at Practice Plan.
Since April, changes to the national minimum wage and employer national insurance contributions have increased costs for dentists, who cannot pass these onto NHS patients under current contract terms.
Some practices have considered fully exiting NHS dentistry, but data from the General Dental Council shows around 66% of UK practices already operate a mixed model, blending NHS and private services.
A mixed practice model offers several advantages. It allows practice owners to set their own fees for private treatments, providing flexibility to adapt to rising costs.
Income from private dentistry can also subsidize NHS treatments, helping dentists continue serving patients who rely on publicly funded care. Moreover, a mixed model supports dentists emotionally by enabling them to maintain NHS care without feeling forced to abandon patients.
Hansford emphasizes that clear communication is critical when introducing private services. Staff must understand the changes and feel confident discussing them with patients. Proper training ensures every team member can answer questions accurately and professionally.
Maintaining NHS contract obligations is another key consideration. Practices must plan carefully to meet contractual requirements while incorporating private treatments. Decisions around scheduling, staff allocation, and potential new hires are essential to balance NHS and private patient needs.
Many practices introduce membership plans alongside private services. These plans provide predictable revenue, help patients budget for care, and foster loyalty. Practice Plan typically conducts business assessments to guide pricing structures and determine the number of patients needed for a successful transition.
Transparency in pricing is essential. Practices should clearly publish costs for private treatments, highlight differences from NHS charges, and avoid hidden fees. Membership plans can further reduce costs for patients while encouraging them to invest in regular care.
Managing patient expectations is also important. While dental care quality remains consistent, private services often offer a more personalized experience. Some practices provide separate lounges or enhanced amenities for private patients, reflecting the higher fees while maintaining professional standards.
Ultimately, a well-planned mixed model can offer the best of both worlds—financial stability for practices and flexible, high-quality care for patients.