BDA calls for thorough review of dental sector by OFT

The British Dental Association (BDA) has called upon the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) to deliver a thorough review of the industry pressures shaping dentistry in the UK.

Responding to a recent announcement that the OFT will be producing a report on the state of the sector, the BDA has called for a full and proper assessment of the complex set of factors that are affecting patient care in Britain.

Since the last report in 2003, the BDA notes that various regulatory changes have created problems for dentists, with bureaucracy becoming a prevalent issue, while many changes remain ongoing.

The dental sector organisation said the short timeframe of the new review could be an issue, as it could result in judgements being made on conditions that are still in flux, but the overall intent of the report has been welcomed.

Dr John Milne, chair of the BDA's general dental practice committee, said: "It is important that all parties who have pushed for reforms, including the government, patient groups and the profession, remain focused on their success."

Earlier this month, the organisation called on the government to meet with it urgently in order to discuss issues relating to the withdrawal of seniority pay laws.